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Macklemore: 'Free Palestine' Call Is for Peace, Not a Critique of Jewish People

ca.news.yahoo.com — September 8, 2026 at 12:02 AM UTC

Rapper Macklemore clarified that his onstage calls to "free Palestine" are not a criticism of Jewish people, emphasizing his message is for peace and equal treatment for all. This statement followed backlash from the Israeli American Council, which petitioned for his removal from Ed Sheeran's tour. During his second night opening for Sheeran at MetLife Stadium, Macklemore addressed Jewish fans directly, saying criticism of Israel or apartheid is not criticism of them. He also called for freedom in Lebanon, Cuba, Congo, Sudan, and for people in America fearing ICE, stating "none of us will be free until we are all free." The petition to remove Macklemore from tour dates was unsuccessful, and he performed as scheduled on Sept. 5. He posted video of his remarks on Instagram, saying wanting equal treatment for all humans should never be controversial. His comments preceded his song "Hind's Hall," named after a Columbia University building occupied by pro-Palestinian protesters.

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