Rapper Macklemore announced on Wednesday his decision to donate $1 million—representing his full net earnings from his curtailed tenure on Ed Sheeran’s tour—to six organizations supporting Palestinians. In his announcement, the artist stated, “Whatever we disagree about, perhaps we can agree on this: Palestinian lives are worth supporting,” adding that he views writing a check as one of the most accessible forms of solidarity.
This development follows a week of conflict between the musician and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Kraft had utilized his authority as a stadium owner to facilitate Macklemore’s removal from the Sheeran tour, citing concerns over what he described as the rapper’s “history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery” and “material shared from the stage.” During the tour, Macklemore had delivered speeches advocating for Palestine. The removal prompted Sheeran’s other opening acts to resign in solidarity.
In response to the situation, Kraft acknowledged being approached by Ed Sheeran, who requested he commit $2 million “to aid in the region to fight this humanitarian crisis.” Kraft stated, “I have dedicated much of my life to building bridges between all people. I believe deeply that all lives are worth protecting.” He noted his history of supporting initiatives that foster economic opportunities for Palestinians and encourage partnerships between young Palestinians and Israelis.
While Kraft’s statement did not explicitly announce a new donation at this time, he emphasized that his objective, alongside Sheeran and other venue operators, is to “continue to work together to build bridges.” As these discussions unfold, the Ed Sheeran tour remains scheduled to continue this weekend in Philadelphia, with tickets currently on sale. The report also notes that he had “supported efforts that create opportunity for Palestinians and have brought young Palestinians and Israelis together to build businesses, create jobs, and forge relationsh, kraft’s statement said that for decades.
