“They don’t give a shit about freedom”: the music world reacts to the abortion verdict

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On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal abortion rights. That means: In conservative states like Texas there can be severe restrictions for women. For many, this is a return to a dark past. Here is an (of course incomplete and exemplary) overview of the artists who have commented on the Supreme Court decision.

Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish expressed dismay during her performance at the Glastonbury Festival. “Today is a really, really dark day for women in the United States,” the 20-year-old said. The pop star has spoken out in favor of abortion rights several times in the past. At the moment she finds it difficult to think about the verdict.

Kendrick Lamar

The American rapper also addressed the controversial decision. Alongside Billie Eilish, Lamar also headlined Glastonbury, shouting “Good luck for women’s rights they judge you just like they judged Jesus” several times.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRb3HDA2DyE

Olivia Rodrigo & Lily Allen

Lily Allen and pop newcomer Olivia Rodrigo didn’t mince words during their performance. Together they sang Allen’s 2009 hit “Fuck You.” “I would like to dedicate this song to the five members of the Supreme Court. They showed us that they finally give a shit about freedom,” said Rodrigo. Then she listed the names of the judges and shouted “We hate you”.

Halsey

“I know we all want to sit at home and wait for a person to come and bring a revolution. But no one’s coming,” pop singer Halsey said during a concert in Phoenix. It would be up to each and every person to do their part. Halsey then shouted “My Body” and the audience responded with “My Choice”.

Rage Against The Machine

Rage Against The Machine also criticized the Supreme Court ruling. “We are disgusted by the cancellation of Roe v Wade and the devastating impact this decision will have on millions of people,” the band wrote on multiple social media outlets. In response, they want to donate almost 500,000 US dollars to organizations that work for reproductive rights.

Lizzo

The American pop and hip-hop singer Lizzo also wants to support organizations that fight for women’s rights. She announced that she and the concert promoter would each donate $500,000 from the proceeds of their tour. The money should go to “Planned Parenthood”, among other things.

Lorde

The 25-year-old singer from New Zealand also tried to convey something positive to her audience. “Let me tell you a secret: you have power. Wisdom is your birthright and I ask you to use that wisdom as everything depends on it,” Lorde said. She ended her speech with the words “Fuck The Supreme Court”.

Madonna

“I’m concerned for my daughters. I am concerned for all women in the United States,” Madonna wrote on Instagram. As a woman, she now has fewer rights than a gun. Nevertheless, the pop legend wants to stay strong. “We’re going to find a way to make it a federal law to secure abortion rights.”

Severe consequences

The American daily “Politico” assumes that the verdict will lead to severe restrictions. Abortion is already illegal in five US states, and the number is likely to increase. A total of 23 US states could make abortion illegal.

+++ This article first appeared on musikexpress.de +++



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