The Deichbrand Festival in Lower Saxony sticks to its booking. The US rapper Macklemore is scheduled to appear on July 20 at the main time, despite public criticism and anti-Semitism. The background to criticism includes statements and content of the artist on the Middle East conflict. But his headliner slot at the Open Air seems safe.
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Reflection instead of rejection
The controversial musician, who has been representing a Pro-Palestinian attitude for a long time and had repeatedly critically commented on Israeli politics, presented a continuation of his so-called protest song “Hind’s Hall” in Sattle, which deals with the humanitarian challenges in Gaza. Another song that, according to critics, transports anti -Semitic content inside. A video with the inscription “Free Palestine” is also cheated on his Instagram profile.
The Federal Government’s anti -Semitism representative, Felix Klein, described the planned appearance in April as “unbearable”. Macklemores language and symbolism are “completely unambiguous”, so “Spiegel” quoted.
According to their own information, the festival team reacted with training on the subject of anti-Semitism. In cooperation with the Anne Frank training center and the cooperation network against anti -Semitism, employees were made aware. According to “Spiegel”, the workshops dealt with the handling of Israel -critical statements and their demarcation to anti -Semitic positions.
On request, the educational center Anne Frank confirmed that Macklemores texts were part of the content of the content. According to “Spiegel”, the festival team showed “serious interest” in reflection and reappraisal. At the same time, the educational institution emphasized that such processes should be long -term. There is currently no direct statement from Macklemore or his management.
Festival commented publicly
Already in April the dike fire had published an explanation in which any form of discrimination, hatred and violence was condemned. If a limit to criminal law is exceeded, one wants to react accordingly.
For the festival at the Nordholz airfield near Cuxhaven, 60,000 visitors are expected. Around 120 artists: Inside and bands will appear there from July 17th to 20th. In addition to Macklemore, artists such as BHZ, Ski AGGU or Culcha Candela also appear.