In solidarity against hate crimes, Butter & Scotch invited patrons to call their representatives, provided them with cue cards and 'liquid courage' during the 'Drunk Dial Congress'
The lady bosses Allison Kave and Keavy Landreth of Butter & Scotch, Crown Heights' 30-seat bakery and bar, are "disgusted and appalled" by the events that unfolded in Charlottesville last weekend. Hence, in solidarity against hate crimes, they transformed their bar into a call center to host the "Drunk Dial Congress" on Monday, August 21.
For the event, Butter & Scotch invited patrons to pick up their phones and to call on their representatives to condemn violence, and to promote inclusive and respectful legislation. Cards with different talking points and cues were available to all participants to which they can refer as they made their calls. Additionally, free shots of "liquid courage" were given out for every call made.
"This is our second time hosting a 'Drunk Dial Congress' event," said Allison Kave. "The first was back in February, a postcard-writing event conceived by one of our regular customers. She had the idea to bring people together post-Women's March to write postcards to their representatives, and we thought adding a calling initiative would be an additional way to make our voices heard."
Butter & Scotch is a bar and bakery which specializes in creative twists on classic American desserts and craft cocktails. Aside from offering delectable desserts and spirited beverages, Kave and Landreth have been on a mission, particularly since the current administration took office, combining social activism and business by creating special events such as the "Drunk Dial Congress."
Photo credit: Butter & Scotch
"The last time we did this in February, the response was incredible. It made us realize how important it is to have spaces in our community for people to come together, both for enjoyment and also for activism - there's no reason the two can't coexist," said Kave before the event. "We expect this one to be even busier, and because our space is pretty small, we've reached out to some of our colleagues in the neighborhood to join us. I'm very happy to say that King Tai, Branch Ofc. and Union Street Pub will all be hosting parallel events so more people in the neighborhood can have a chance to participate."
Additionally, Butter & Scotch added the "New Mexican Nachos" to the menu, a pay-as-you-wish option which is available until August 25, with all of the proceeds going to the Black Lives Matter chapter in Charlottesville. Also, $1 from the sale of every cocktail on their "Girl Gangs" menu will be donated to Planned Parenthood.
Eat, drink, be merry and fight the good fight in Crown Heights!
