The British band Massive Attack has launched a network to draw attention to restrictions on freedom of expression within the music industry. The background is the political positioning of some artists: inside the war in the Gaza Strip and the consequences that resulted from it. In a statement on social media, massive attacks explained that they and other artists were confronted with intimidation, deprivation of appearances and legal threats because of their public criticism of the situation in Gaza and in the role of the British government.
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The band’s statement on Instagram:
“The scenes in Gaza can hardly be put into words,” the band writes. “We speak as an artist: inside who use their platform to comment against what is happening and the British complicity.” Massive Attack refer to the activities of the UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) organization, which according to its own statements have already submitted several complaints against musicians: inside, including Kneecap, Bob Vylan or Massive Attack itself. The latter were unloaded by festivals, for example, after they had publicly spoken out against Israeli military policy.
Many artists: under pressure inside
A documentary published by the activist group LED by Donkey’s published documentary addresses the role of the UKLFI and explains how artists are put under pressure on the inside, also with legal means. Bob Vylan’s statements, for example, were examined by the police after her Glastonbury appearance in June. The UKLFI also explains that they are responsible for several festival discharges and have also targeted Kneecap. Rapper Mo Chara is currently underway for a suspected terrorist offense that will be negotiated in August.
Call to support
The British band emphasizes that with the establishment of their alliance, they also want to protect young and aspiring artists: inside. “We cannot allow others, especially those in vulnerable professional positions, be forced or unloaded.”
The band asks those affected to report to them, including those who have so far not spoke out of concern about career following. Supporting acts include Fontaines DC, Kneecap, Garbage and Brian Eno. These artists also released the statement on the inside or showed solidarity on their channels.
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Massive Attack: Demands for humanitarian aid in Gaza
In conclusion, the band formulates several political demands that it together with the supportive artists: in the inside. An immediate and permanent ceasefire is required. But an end to British armaments and export licenses to Israel as well as the unhindered access for internationally recognized aid organizations according to Gaza without a military threat is also necessary.
The band recently also criticized the Hamas terror video shown live. Massive attacks have already been critical of the situation in the Middle East, have been giving up appearances in Israel since 1999 and regularly committed themselves to musical or political contributions.