Artists speak out on ‘attempted censorship’ of views on Gaza

A group of British and Irish artists including Massive Attack, Kneecap, Fontaines DC and Brian Eno have launched a campaign to protect the freedom of expression of musicians speaking out about what’s happening in Gaza.

“We write as artists who’ve chosen to use our public platforms to speak out against the genocide occurring there & the role of the UK government in facilitating it,” explained Massive Attack in an Instagram post announcing the coalition.

It criticises “various intimidations from within our industry… aggressive, vexatious campaigns” with particular reference to an organisation called UK Lawyers for Israel which has been filing police reports and writing to venues, local authorities and artists in recent months about examples including Bob Vylan and Kneecap.

“We encourage artists who’ve been placed in this position, or those who now wish to use their platforms to talk about Palestine, but are concerned about industrial or legal repercussions, to contact us,” announced the new group.

You don’t need us to tell you how sensitive this topic is right now. The Guardian has UK Lawyers for Israel’s response, including its explanation of its recent interaction with Massive Attack.