Macklemore’s free Palestine tour raises funds

Gaza charities have praised rapper Macklemore for supporting Palestinians through his music and fundraising efforts as his sold-out Free Palestine Tour reaches its conclusion in London.

The three-concert European tour will donate all proceeds to 12 organisations providing humanitarian assistance, medical care, education and community support to Palestinians affected by the crisis in Gaza.

Shabby Amini, fundraising and marketing director at Medical Aid for Palestinians, expressed gratitude for the rapper’s contribution, saying his public support helps keep Palestinian experiences in the spotlight. Representatives of Anera also welcomed the initiative, highlighting music’s ability to unite people and inspire action.

The tour began in Dublin on October 26, continued in Paris on October 29, and is scheduled to conclude at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on October 31.

The beneficiary organisations include Medical Aid for Palestinians, Anera, Gaza Soup Kitchen, Heal Palestine, Taawon, the Palestinian Youth Movement, the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund, UNRWA USA and several other humanitarian and advocacy groups.

Macklemore launched the tour after being removed from the supporting lineup of Ed Sheeran’s US stadium tour in September following controversy over his comments about Gaza. The rapper said Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, had contacted Sheeran regarding his participation. Sheeran later explained that his promoter made the decision after venues raised concerns about hosting Macklemore.

Through his Free Palestine Tour, Macklemore has combined live performances with fundraising to support organisations assisting Palestinians and maintain public attention on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.