Pink Responds to Backlash After Macklemore’s Pro-Palestinian Comments

Pink has intensified her criticism of Macklemore following his statements on Palestine. On September 4, Macklemore performed as the opening act for Ed Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. During his performance, he sang an anti-Israel song titled ‘Hind’s Hall’ and repeatedly chanted ‘Free Palestine’ while a slideshow displayed footage from Gaza.

The performance stirred anger among fans, including the Instagram page ‘Stop Antisemitism,’ which criticized Macklemore’s actions as ‘awful.’ Pink shared the video on her Instagram story, sparking backlash for apparently supporting an anti-Israel stance.

Pink has faced criticism after supporting a video that condemned Macklemore following his comments on Palestine and Israel.

Initially, Pink refrained from stating her views explicitly. However, on September 11, she took to Instagram to express her thoughts, stating, ‘I’ve been quiet in my own words for a week, which you know isn’t like me. So here they are.’

She explained that the reposted video spoke on behalf of Macklemore, using phrases she wouldn’t have chosen. Noting that ‘a repost isn’t a statement,’ Pink clarified her core beliefs: ‘I’d rather be disagreed with for what I actually said than hated for what anybody else wrote.’

Pink, identifying herself as Jewish, expressed frustration at assumptions made about her beliefs through a repost and the inclusion of the word ‘Jew.’ She asserted, ‘Of course I don’t speak for Israel, or for any government. I never have.’ Reiterating her belief that ‘Hamas is a terrorist organization,’ she maintained that Palestinians should aspire for a future honoring their humanity and aspirations. Her priority remains the protection of innocent life, cautioning against celebrating the death of any child.

She referenced her work with UNICEF, indicating her experience with children on both sides of the conflict. Declining to debate a complex war through Instagram captions, Pink explained her reaction focused on Macklemore’s problematic behavior.

Pointing to a past incident where Macklemore donned a costume perceived as antisemitic, Pink expressed disappointment, noting that his apology prompted forgiveness. Nevertheless, Macklemore’s recent performance compelled renewed concern, with Pink stating, ‘You don’t get to decide that for us.’

Her concerns relate to feelings of fear stemming from the performance and its impact on those present. While not calling for another artist’s silence, Pink highlighted her desire for acknowledgment of fear felt by the Jewish community, without being cast as promoting genocide.

Reflecting on her stance over the years, Pink reiterated her commitment to standing up for beliefs, even in the face of criticism, drawing parallels to her protest songs, such as ‘Dear Mr. President’ from 2006. Upholding her conviction, she stated, ‘Something has changed in this country, and I can read it in my own comments.’

Illuminating the reality that many failed to discern her true beliefs, she underlined an absence of inquiry by asserting, ‘I wasn’t asked. I was told.’ Despite accusations painting her as a villain, Pink vowed to articulate her perspective vocally, teaching her children the same.

Addressing the community, Pink stated, ‘You don’t have to agree with me. You never did,’ reinforcing the responsibility to prevent fear and targeting of anyone’s family at events solely due to government actions. She reached out to those feeling frightened, emphasizing unity.

Concluding with traditions tied to the Jewish New Year, Pink expressed gratitude, acknowledging those around her and committing to maintain outspoken beliefs. Macklemore responded by sharing a video explaining his choice to tour with Sheeran, advocating for equal human treatment.