From Rolling Stone · Charisma Madarang · · 1m 30s
Kraft matches Sheeran's $2M Palestinian aid pledge
After pressure over removing Macklemore from tour, Patriots owner commits major donation.
In brief
After pressure over removing Macklemore from tour, Patriots owner commits major donation. Kraft responded to backlash over censoring Macklemore by pledging $2 million to humanitarian aid in the region, claiming decades of support for Palestinian-Israeli bridge-building efforts. Originally reported by Rolling Stone.
Macklemore challenges Kraft to donate
After Kraft pressured venues to remove him from Ed Sheeran's tour, the Seattle rapper challenged the Patriots owner to match his $1 million donation to Palestinian support groups.
Kraft removes Macklemore from tour
The Patriots owner told venues he wouldn't allow Macklemore to perform at Gillette Stadium, citing the rapper's recent pro-Palestine statements and what he called a history of antisemitic rhetoric.
Macklemore's Gaza solidarity statement
At MetLife Stadium earlier in September, Macklemore shouted 'Free Palestine,' shared images of Gaza destruction, and expressed solidarity with Palestinians during Ed Sheeran's show.
“Free Palestine”
Kraft pledges $2 million donation
Kraft responded by committing $2 million to aid in the region, claiming Ed Sheeran asked him to match his donation before Macklemore's challenge.
Kraft claims decades of bridge-building
The billionaire stated he has long supported efforts creating opportunity for Palestinians and bringing young Palestinians and Israelis together for business and relationships, though he provided no specifics.
“I've dedicated much of my life to building bridges between all people.”
Sheeran plans to rally other venues
Kraft said Sheeran plans to reach out to other venue owners to continue working together on humanitarian aid and bridge-building in the region.
What to remember
Kraft responded to backlash over censoring Macklemore by pledging $2 million to humanitarian aid in the region, claiming decades of support for Palestinian-Israeli bridge-building efforts.
