Over the past week, more than 60 artists pulled out of the 2024 edition of SXSW in protest of the festival's ties to defense contractors and in support of the Palestinian people. The festival has now taken up the protest on social media after Texas Governor Greg Abbott tweeted about the situation.
“Bands pull out of SXSW over US military sponsorship,” Abbott wrote, linking to a news article about the protest. “Farewell. Don't come back. Austin remains the headquarters of Army Futures Command. San Antonio is the United States' Military City. We are proud of the U.S. Army in Texas. If you don't like it, don't come here.”
Festival representatives responded, saying: “SXSW does not agree with Governor Abbott. We are an organization that welcomes diverse viewpoints. Music is the soul of SXSW, and has long been our heritage. “We fully respect the decision made by these artists to exercise their right to freedom of expression.”
Explaining its relationships with the US military and Collins Aerospace, SXSW continued:
All over the world we are witnessing untold tragedies, the rise of oppressive regimes, and the increasing spread of violent conflicts. It is more important than ever that we come together to solve these major humanitarian issues.
The defense industry has historically been a testing ground for many of the systems we rely on today. These organizations are often leaders in emerging technologies, and we think we'd better understand how their approach will impact our lives.
Sponsoring the Army is part of our commitment to advancing the ideas that shape our world. As for Collins Aerospace, this year they participated as a sponsor of two SXSW Pitch categories, giving entrepreneurs visibility and funding for potentially game-changing work.
We have and will continue to support human rights for all. The situation in the Middle East is tragic, and it highlights the growing importance of standing together against injustice.
Artists leaving SXSW include Squirrel Flower, Shalom, Frown, PatellaSprints , Tomato Flower , Good Looking , Mamalarki , Lambrini girlsLipstick Critic, Horsejumper of Love, Eliza McLamb, Strange Joy, Bloomsday, They're Devouring a Body of Water, This Is Lorelei, Broken Heart Fantasy, Trauma Ray, Omni, Gunman, Allegra Krieger, Yaya Bay, cumgirl8, and more.
SXSW disagrees with Governor Abbott. https://t.co/fOHHn9r5BG
– SXSW (@sxsw) March 12, 2024
All over the world we are witnessing untold tragedies, the rise of oppressive regimes, and the increasing spread of violent conflicts. It is more important than ever that we come together to solve these major humanitarian issues.
– SXSW (@sxsw) March 12, 2024
We have and will continue to support human rights for all. The situation in the Middle East is tragic, and it highlights the growing importance of standing together against injustice.
– SXSW (@sxsw) March 12, 2024
