Recently at Gillette Stadium, musician Zach Bryan wore a shirt displaying the message “Free Palestine” during his concert. This happened weeks after rapper Macklemore faced a similar controversy after being barred from opening for Ed Sheeran due to his pro-Palestinian comments.
Zach Bryan’s Statement
Bryan’s shirt also featured the phrase “An appeal to heaven” alongside a pine tree emblem. This phrase originates from the Revolutionary War, previously appearing on Massachusetts’ maritime flag until 1971. Some members of Bryan’s band donned attire with similar messages, underlining their viewpoint during the event.
Reaction and Historical Context
The phrase “An appeal to heaven” historically evokes the colonists’ belief in divine intervention against tyranny. WBZ-TV attempted to get comments from Gillette Stadium regarding the event, yet no response has been received.
The Macklemore Incident
Earlier, Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s “Loop” tour after announcing “Free Palestine” at a New Jersey concert. He had been scheduled to perform alongside Sheeran at the same venue in Foxboro. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who also owns Gillette Stadium, contacted Sheeran requesting Macklemore’s removal. Kraft mentioned that Macklemore’s words and previous actions could be construed as antisemitic, thus fueling the controversy.
Subsequent Actions and Statements
Macklemore addressed antisemitism in an Instagram post, emphasizing that critiquing Israel and supporting Palestine should not translate to anti-Jewish sentiment. Following the incident, all opening acts for Sheeran’s tour withdrew in unity with Macklemore.
Macklemore has since committed $1 million to aid Palestinians while urging Kraft to follow suit. Kraft indicated he was in discussions with Sheeran about matching Sheeran’s $2 million commitment. Unfortunately, Sheeran’s planned concerts at Gillette Stadium on September 25 and 26 were canceled due to severe weather conditions.
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