Why did Macklemore cancel Dubai Coca-Cola Arena concert? Details explored as rapper issues statement

Macklemore's decision to cancel his upcoming concert in Dubai has drawn significant attention, as the rapper issued a detailed statement explaining the reasons behind his choice. Scheduled to perform at the Coca-Cola Arena in October, the rapper cited the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) alleged involvement in the Sudan war as the primary reason for the cancellation.

In his statement that he posted on Instagram on Friday, Macklemore highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, claiming that the UAE financially supports the RSF militia involved in the violence.

The rapper, who previously released a protest song, Hind's Hall, in support of Palestine earlier this year, stressed the need to uphold one’s beliefs and do the right thing regardless of the negative impact on his career.

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Macklemore's decision rooted in solidarity with Sudan

On August 24th, Macklemore shared a message post on his Instagram page. He tackled the rationale behind the cancellation of the upcoming concert.

“After careful thought, numerous conversations with trusted organizers and friends and my own reading/ research, I have decided to cancel my upcoming show in Dubai this October. I don't take this decision lightly and think it's important to explain why,” he wrote in his post.

The rapper added:

"Over the last several months I've had a number of people reach out to me, sharing resources and asking me to cancel the show in solidarity with the people of Sudan and to boycott doing business in UAE for the role they are playing in the ongoing genocide and humanitarian crisis in the region."

Macklemore further said:

"It was important for me to learn and really get a grasp on the situation. I never want to make a decision out of fear but a measured one from the heart." he added, "The crisis in Sudan is catastrophic."

"Over ten million people have been displaced, millions face imminent famine, sexual violence is widespread, and at least 150,000 lives have been lost, including thousands of children while numerous external forces contribute to this crisis, advocates, organizers, journalists, and officials repeatedly highlight the UAE's role in funding the RSF militia as a major factor."

The Grammy-winning artist Macklemore questioned his intentions, asking:

"At the end of the day I have to ask myself what is my intention as an artist? The last 10 months I've been learning what factors/motivators feed genocide and global systemic oppression."

"I keep getting led back to self interest over collective interest at the root. Capitalism is the glue that holds this ideology together. And if I take the money, while knowing it doesn't sit right with my spirit, how am I any different than the politicians I've been actively protesting against?"

Macklemore’s decision comes at a time when people all over the world are turning their attention to Sudan and the alleged involvement of the UAE in the same.

In July, The Guardian newspaper reported the alleged connection of Emirati passports with the RSF, a paramilitary organization involved in the Sudanese crisis.

However, this has led to concern all over the world, although the UAE has denied these allegations. Macklemore also drew parallels between the struggles of the Sudanese people and other marginalized communities, including the Palestinians.

"When we realize our individual liberation is Palestinian liberation. Is Sudanese liberation. Is Congolese liberation," he asked.

He stated this, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global struggles against oppression. Macklemore's decision has been met with widespread support from fans, who have praised him for staying true to his principles.