Rapper Macklemore is a vocal supporter of Palestine and Gaza residents. During a recent concert at MetLife Stadium, he yelled “Free Palestine!” onstage, projected images of devastation in the area, and performed protest song “Hind’s Hall.”
Now, it seems that American venues are not willing to play ball with the Seattle artist, and he has been dropped from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour.
“After discussions with stakeholders, Macklemore will not be performing on the remaining support dates,” according to Messina Touring Group, the promoter of Loop Tour. This news follows backlash from organizations like StopAntisemitism and others, such as pop star Pink.
I understand the position Sheeran was in. But, at best (I don’t Sheeran’s beliefs), when it came to the choice he accepted the stadium owner’s demands over the moral demands Macklemore is calling all people across the world to recognise.
That act supports the unjust persecution of Palestinians and marginalises the few brave voices like Macklemore’s who are willing to stand up against these humanitarian crimes. Sheeran deserves the backlash as well, and whether its his lack of moral fibre, or his ideological alignments, this instance should always tarnish him.