my name is liam shye. i am a 10-year deejay and former u.s. commissioner. we formed a "save the rave" in response to a proposed california law, but also in part due to what has been happening for years in san francisco. when i was a youth commissioner in 2003, we passed a resolution declaring a health crisis due to the lack of safe recreation opportunities for youth. that has only gotten worse as numerous events have been denied permits or lost traditional venues. reform so we could organize and show that our community deserves to have these events protected and that they are more than just parties. they are major contributors to the local economy and our vital cultural assets that increase health and happiness for citizens to pay government taxes. we are gathered to night to share our stories of electronic dance music events and the positive impact they have had on our lives. our right to dance, assemble, and freedom of expression is protected by the constitution. unless we continue to make our voices heard, it is easy for those rights to get swept under t