Key facts
- Macklemore performed a pro-Palestine song and displayed related imagery during his opening sets for Ed Sheeran's tour.
- He called for a 'Free Palestine' and spoke in support of Palestinians and other oppressed groups.
- Pro-Israel organizations criticized his performance as "propaganda" and "anti-Israel."
- The Israeli American Council launched a petition to remove Macklemore from the tour.
- Supporters accused pro-Israel groups of attempting to suppress free speech.
American rapper Macklemore has drawn both praise and criticism for his pro-Palestine statements and performances during his opening sets for Ed Sheeran's Loop tour in the United States. During shows at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Macklemore performed "Hind’s Hall," an anthem supporting Palestinians, and displayed footage from Gaza and the occupied West Bank. He also delivered a speech advocating for peace and the rights of Palestinians and other oppressed peoples, explicitly stating "free Palestine."
Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Haggerty, addressed the Jewish community, asserting that criticism of Israel or apartheid is not antisemitic and that his message is one of peace and equality. He also extended his call for freedom to other regions and groups facing oppression.
However, his actions have been met with backlash from pro-Israel organizations. The Israeli American Council (IAC) launched a petition urging Ed Sheeran and his management to remove Macklemore from the tour, accusing him of using "selective imagery, biased messaging, and disputed claims" and calling his performance "political propaganda." The organization Stop Antisemitism also criticized the rapper, labeling his performance "propaganda" and "anti-Israel." The Anti-Defamation League stated that Macklemore was "falsely accusing Israel of genocide and engaging in antisemitic rhetoric and behavior."
In response, rights advocates, journalists, and social media users have voiced support for Macklemore, commending his courage and accusing pro-Israel groups of attempting to stifle free speech. Journalist Glenn Greenwald argued that "Israel and its western loyalists" are the greatest threat to free speech by attempting to criminalize criticism of Israel. The Northern Irish rap trio Kneecap also publicly supported Macklemore, criticizing the "Zionist lobby."
Some observers noted Macklemore's consistent advocacy for Palestine, suggesting his performance should not have been surprising. They also commented on Ed Sheeran's decision to have Macklemore as an opening act, given his outspoken support for Palestine. Middle East Eye has reached out to Ed Sheeran for comment.