Pink Responds to Backlash Over Macklemore Criticism

Pink has intensified her criticism of Macklemore after his comments supporting Palestine at a recent concert. On September 4, Macklemore opened for Ed Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. During his performance, he chanted “Free Palestine” and displayed war footage from Gaza.

Many fans reacted negatively, including an Instagram page, “Stop Antisemitism,” that called his actions “awful.” Pink shared this video on her Instagram story, which led to backlash against her, accusing her of supporting Israel.

Initially silent, Pink later explained her position on September 11 through an emotional Instagram statement. She acknowledged sharing a video criticizing Macklemore, noting it included words she would not have chosen herself. Pink clarified that a repost doesn’t equate to a statement of her own beliefs.

“I was born a Jew,” she wrote, emphasizing her identity and expressing frustration over assumptions made about her beliefs based on the repost. She stressed, “Hamas is a terrorist organization. Palestinians deserve a future that honors their humanity,” highlighting her balanced view of the conflict.

Detailing her UNICEF work with children “on both sides,” Pink refused to simplify the complex conflict into an Instagram caption.

Her criticism of Macklemore stems from past experiences. She recalled his 2014 performance where she applauded his message, only to feel alienated by an insensitive costume he wore months later.

Pink asserted that Macklemore’s recent performance excluded Jews, stating, “You don’t get to decide that for us.” She clarified her repost wasn’t about Macklemore’s “Free Palestine” comment but rather her reaction as a Jewish mother feeling fear.

Speaking from her past of advocating through music, such as her protest song “Dear Mr. President,” Pink emphasized her lifelong dedication to standing up for others, and now for her community.

She noted a change in societal attitudes, mentioning comments she has received that reveal broader misunderstandings and stereotypes about Jewish people.

Pink remains firm, telling those disagreeing with her that mutual agreement has never been a requirement. She emphasized that one doesn’t need to support all of Israel’s actions to want peace for Jewish families.

Ending her statement, she referenced both 9/11 and Rosh Hashanah, expressing gratitude and continuing her Jewish traditions, despite external criticism.

Meanwhile, Macklemore defended his performance, stating his desire for equal treatment for all humans, which he believes should never be contentious.