On Saturday, April 26, Laramie High School students held the annual Rock Relief fundraiser at the Laramie Collective, aiming to raise money through local music performances. This year, students honored Aliyah Howard, a much-loved Spanish teacher at Laramie High School. Howard tragically passed away in a car accident this previous November, but left a lasting legacy with her students and colleagues. Howard was known for her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and worked to create educational opportunities for students throughout her career. The fundraiser was organized by two student groups: Z Club and the Laramie Equality and Diversity Club (L.E.A.D.S.).
The fundraiser was held at The Collective in downtown Laramie and featured performances by Angelus Errare, Blankslate, Winct, Spindrifter, Corned Beef, and Felix & Liam, with acts from both Wyoming and Colorado. Attendees donated $15 at the door, with proceeds going toward a fund dedicated to Howard’s. The fund will support a wide array of scholarships and events aligned with her ideals.
Among the many bands that performed at The Collective, Angelus Errare stood out as a large focal point of the event. Made up of educators themselves, the band exemplifies the values of student voices and the importance for the younger generation to be heard. It was very uplifting and exciting for the students to be able to celebrate and share this special event with faculty members who have a personal relation to the cause.
Angelus Errare blends early 2000s pop-punk influences with a modern edge, delivering high-energy performances marked by explosive melodies and exciting crowd engagement. The four-piece band produces a full sound that is enhanced by the magical layering of harmonies and the distinctive addition of a keytar. As Angelus Errare performed their high-energy set, students danced and celebrated the evening’s success. While the total amount raised has not yet been announced, organizers described the event as a successful night for the community and the cause it supported.
The annual fundraiser uses the tagline “When words fail, music speaks,” reflecting the organizers’ goal of using music as a unifying force. In a college town like Laramie, students saw the event as an opportunity to unite the community, promote the importance of diversity, and raise funds in a positive environment. The Rock Relief fundraiser serves as a perfect tribute to Aliyah Howard, who supported the students through last year’s event and previous events of years past.
