Macklemore calls for free Palestine at Colorado concert, criticises ICE

WASHINGTON: US rapper Macklemore called for Palestinian freedom at his first concert since being removed from Ed Sheeran’s North American tour. He also spoke up on ongoing humanitarian crises in different parts of the world. He criticised the US immigration agency ICE as well.

The Seattle-born rapper performed a 17-song set on Thursday, 22 October, at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. It was his first stage show since September, when the decision to keep him as a supporting act on Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour was reversed.

Addressing the audience during the concert, Macklemore said it was not hard to understand what being human required in the present circumstances. According to him, speaking up for someone in pain is not politics but a matter of humanity.

He repeated his call for Palestinian freedom and also voiced support for the people of Sudan, Congo, Lebanon and Haiti.

Speaking of people affected by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, he said there were people who were afraid to leave their homes. At the end of his remarks, he described love as the core of his message.

According to the music magazine NME, the audience applauded and cheered after his speech. According to a report by The Mary Sue, the audience also responded loudly when he mentioned ICE.

The performance came ahead of his Free Palestine Tour in Europe, several shows of which have already sold out. His statement and political stance have once again highlighted the role of musicians in speaking on social and political issues.