Macklemore launches Free Palestine benefit tour in Dublin

American rapper Macklemore launched his “Free Palestine” benefit tour with a sold-out performance at Dublin’s 3Arena. The event follows his removal from Ed Sheeran’s US tour after he made pro-Palestinian statements during performances in New Jersey.

The concert featured a diverse lineup, including Irish singer Hozier, the rap group Kneecap, and the folk band Beoga, which had previously withdrawn from Sheeran’s tour in solidarity with Macklemore. Other performers included Palestinian-American DJ Habibeats, singer Lina Makoul, and rapper M1 of Dead Prez. Special guest speakers included actor Liam Cunningham, activist Nadia Greenspan, and organizer Samir Eskanda, while celebrities such as Mark Ruffalo and Cynthia Nixon appeared remotely.

Macklemore addressed the crowd, stating that his message is rooted in “love and liberation” rather than hatred. He criticized attempts to silence the phrase “Free Palestine,” noting that the words have become more controversial than the suffering that made them necessary. All proceeds from the three-city tour, which includes upcoming dates in Paris and London, will benefit humanitarian organizations such as Medical Aid for Palestinians, the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, and UNRWA USA.