Macklemore Defends Pro-Palestine Remarks at Ed Sheeran Concert Following Criticism from P!NK, Boy George

Macklemore has drawn criticism from fellow musicians P!NK and Boy George after making remarks in support of a free Palestine while opening for Ed Sheeran during a pair of concerts in East Rutherford, New Jersey, over the weekend. Speaking from the stage at MetLife Stadium, Macklemore said, “One of the reasons why I wanted to come on this tour was because I wanted to stand up here on stages in stadiums across America and say two words that are very near and dear to my heart: ‘Free Palestine.’ I said, ‘Free Palestine!’ I want those words to be loud and clear so that people from Gaza, all the way to the occupied West Bank know that we have not forgotten them.” He then introduced his next song, “Hind’s Hall,” explaining that it “was inspired by the bravery of Columbia University students who led an encampment movement that mobilized the entire world. Opened up hearts, myself included,” he continued. “So thank you to those students that risked their diplomas, that risked their tuition, that risked their scholarships, that stood up and said, ‘No.’ CUAD students, Students for Justice in Palestine, and Jewish Voice for Peace. Thank you guys.” To all of my Jewish brothers and sisters: Criti...