Macklemore fired for Palestine speech

Rapper Macklemore was dropped from Ed Sheeran's tour after saying "Free Palestine" at MetLife Stadium on September 4th, then pledged to donate his entire tour earnings to Palestinian organizations.

“Free Palestine! I want those words to be loud and clear, so that people all the way in Gaza to the occupied West Bank know that we have not forgotten about them.”

Ms Rachel matches $1m donation

YouTube educator Ms Rachel, with over 21 million subscribers, announced she would match Macklemore's $1m donation to the Palestine Children's Relief Fund.

“We have a moral obligation to use our privilege and platforms to protect children and human rights.”

Ms Rachel calls out wealthy celebrities

The children's entertainer encouraged "every wealthy white celebrity" to match her donation, citing over 20,000 Palestinian children killed in the conflict.

“Over 20,000 precious Palestinian children have been killed, and children continue to be killed every day.”

Macklemore clarifies his message

At a second tour date on September 5th, Macklemore told Jewish audience members that criticizing Israel and opposing genocide is not criticism of them, emphasizing his message is for peace and human dignity.

“Criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide in no way is a criticism of you.”

Other artists quit tour in solidarity

Four supporting acts, including Finneas and Lukas Graham, left Ed Sheeran's tour in solidarity with Macklemore after his removal.

Sheeran and Kraft donate privately

Ed Sheeran and Patriots owner Robert Kraft each donated $2m to aid in the region, with Sheeran saying he has personal views but chooses not to speak publicly about the conflict.

“Just because I choose not to speak publicly, it doesn't mean I don't have them, and it doesn't mean I don't care.”