About Us

Mission Statement (2026)

We are a non-denominational, inclusive community choir committed to raising our voices for justice, unity, and human dignity. Through music, we illuminate truths, uplift marginalized communities, and inspire action to support our democracy and serve a more equitable world. We strive to transform hearts, challenge injustices, and build bridges of understanding -- one song and one story at a time. Our voices encourage all to join in our call for courage, compassion, and collective change. 

Amy Forbes, Songleader, and Rev. Verdis, Co-Founder & Songleader, leading songs at the No Kings Rally, March 28, 2026, in New London, CT.

Rev. Verdis leading a rehearsal ahead of the No Kings Rally

At the No Kings Rally on March 28, 2026, in New London, CT

We gather and rehearse at the All Souls Unitarian Universalist Congregation of New London, yet we are a non-denominational community choir.

Who We Are

  • “It was impossible to look away from the scenes coming out of Minneapolis as its citizens confronted ICE in the winter of 2025-2026.  These courageous, loving people stood up for their neighbors in the coldest weather. Their commitment didn’t waver, no matter the level of hostility they faced. Noticeably, music was always in the background, sung to buoy spirits on as citizens stood up to ICE. It piqued my curiosity. Where did the music come from? Who organized it? Phone calls were made to churches in Minneapolis to identify the source of the music. The Justice Songbook was found to be the source, and it’s free online. Also discovered that the quality of sound was so good because it was practiced behind the scenes. The idea of beginning a similar local community choir was formed. The idea was pitched to Rev. Verdis, and before the words were out of my mouth. He said yes! Let’s do it!” -Clare Evento, co-founder

  • Currently, we are a group of New London County residents who want to resist, protest, and to call attention to violations of U.S. law and the Constitution by this administration, but to do it through song. We empathize with those who have been harmed and are living in oppression. The NLJS was founded in February 2026 by Rev. Verdis and Clare Evento, who reached out to members of the community for those who share a vision of resistance through song. The response was overwhelming, and from then on, the New London Justice Singers was established.

  • We sing and encourage others to sing with us. We assemble at rallies, protests, vigils, and other community events. We are a peaceful group. We are not a performance group for anyone’s entertainment. We do not engage in civil disobedience or disruption tactics, but we support those who do through song. We do not interfere with law enforcement, but we will remind everyone of their rights under the Constitution.

JOIN US!

Leadership Team

  • Rev. Verdis LeVar Robinson

    CO-FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL SONGLEADER

    Transitional Minister of All Souls Unitarian Universalist Congregation of New London; Accomplished Minister of Music and Social Justice.

  • Clare Evento

    CO-FOUNDER

    Organizer with Guardians of Democracy; Longtime member of All Souls Unitarian Universalist Congregation of New London.

  • Amy Forbes

    SONGLEADER

    Teaching artist, educator, and professional actress and singer. She is the founder of the Treehouse Players, a children’s theatre adventure.

  • Linda Hinz

    SONGLEADER

    Pianist and Former Director of Music for St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, New London, CT.

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