Mural of rapper Macklemore painted in Gaza after Sheeran tour furor
The mural, on a slab that leans against ruined buildings surrounded by rubble, depicts the "Thrift Shop" rapper raising a fist in the air.
After the US rapper Macklemore was barred from performing on Ed Sheeran's tour for advocating "Free Palestine," a mural of Macklemore was painted in Gaza City. The mural, which depicts the "Thrift Shop" rapper raising a fist, was created on a slab of concrete leaning against ruined buildings. It reads, "Thank you for using your voice for Palestine."
The mural's designer, Anne Redwan, explained that they wanted to send a message of support to Macklemore amid the persecution they face in Gaza. The incident sparked donations from various individuals and organizations, with Macklemore pledging to donate his $1 million net earnings from the tour to six aid groups. US billionaire Robert Kraft, who owns Gillette Stadium, also pledged $2 million for aid in the region, asking Macklemore to match the pledge, though Sheeran has not commented on any donations.
Aid agency officials believe this increased celebrity attention can help bring more sustained support to Gaza, where most residents rely on aid for basic necessities. However, humanitarian group leader Hussein Murtaja emphasized that Macklemore's solidarity, beyond the donation, is more significant for achieving a political solution and peace for the people of Gaza.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
