Ladyfest began in Olympia, Washington – the hometown of the riot grrrl movement – in 2000, and the feminist festival, featuring music, art and workshops, has since spread across the globe. 2007 will mark the sixth consecutive year for Ladyfest Ottawa, and the first time since 2004 that Ladyfest has taken place in Toronto.

According to Ladyfest Toronto’s mandate, it aims to “work locally to support and inspire emerging women artists and improve the representation of women in creative and artistic disciplines” while being “pro-feminist, trans-inclusive, pro-diversity and anti-oppression.” This year’s edition will take place in September, but before then they need to raise some money.

So this Friday, the very first event hosted by Ladyfest Toronto 2007 will take the form of a fundraising show at the White Orchid (812 Dundas St. West). Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Why so early? Five bands – Galaxy, Republic of Safety, Kickers, 123ten and Carmen Elle – will be playing, and all for only $6. Baked goods, including some vegan treats, will be on sale.

Image courtesy of Republic of Safety's MySpace.