Macklemore Defends Speaking On Gaza At London “Free Palestine Tour” Finale

Macklemore ended his “Free Palestine Tour” in London on Friday, October 30, telling fans that speaking about Gaza had become easier than keeping quiet. The sold-out benefit took place at OVO Arena Wembley.

“It was more uncomfortable for me to stay silent than to say something,” he said. He described speaking up as a human response, rather than an act of courage.

His remarks called for people to see children in Gaza as their own. He also questioned the barriers that divide people across borders.

Vic Mensa, Nemahsis, Paloma Faith and Shadia Mansour were among the artists on the London bill. Aja Monet, Cure for Paranoia and Lucas Jones also joined the lineup.

The venue’s event page pledged all concert proceeds to 12 organizations working with Palestinian communities. Recipients included Gaza Soup Kitchen, Medical Aid for Palestinians and the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, along with Jewish Voice for Peace and UNRWA USA.

Organizers listed health care, education and direct humanitarian help, as well as community programs. The page also named advocacy, organizing and media efforts among the activities the concert would help fund.

The London finale followed a Dublin opening with Hozier and Kneecap. Dead Prez and Beoga also performed there.

The Dublin event also included a video appearance by the Gaza Children’s Choir, with Palestinian singer Lina Makoul starting the musical performances. Paris followed on Thursday, October 29, before London.

The series followed Macklemore losing his support slot on Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour after his September speeches at MetLife Stadium.

Sheeran attributed the decision to tour organizers and later apologized for how he handled the dispute.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft said Macklemore’s rhetoric and imagery offended Jewish people and opposed his planned appearance at Gillette Stadium. The rapper rejected that view. He said criticizing Israel did not mean opposing Jewish people and called for everyone to be treated equally.

In London, Macklemore also addressed the 50 members of the House of Lords who had sought to stop his concert. He responded by stressing equal rights for people everywhere.