Prioritizing Human Rights Over Money: Macklemore’s Stand and a Call to Celebrities
In a bold and commendable move, US rapper Macklemore has recently canceled his scheduled October show in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). His decision stems from concerns about the UAE’s alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, specifically its reported support of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been accused of committing severe atrocities in the region. Macklemore’s stance is a powerful example of a celebrity who prioritizes human rights over financial gain, a rare but necessary stand in the world of entertainment.
Macklemore’s decision resonates beyond the borders of Sudan and the UAE; it raises a crucial question for celebrities and public figures worldwide: Where do we draw the line between art, entertainment, and human rights? His action stands in stark contrast to the many international stars who continue to perform and participate in events in countries with questionable human rights records, particularly Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has, in recent years, become a hub for international events, from concerts to sporting events. However, this cultural boom cannot mask the kingdom’s dark record, particularly its role in the devastating war in Yemen. The Saudi-led coalition’s military intervention in Yemen has led to what the United Nations describes as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. Thousands of civilians have been killed, millions are on the brink of famine, and the country’s infrastructure has been decimated.
Moreover, the kingdom’s human rights record at home and abroad has drawn international condemnation. The murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul was a gruesome reminder of the lengths to which the regime will go to silence dissent. Inside the kingdom, repression continues unabated, with crackdowns on activists, dissidents, and even moderate voices who dare to speak out against the government.
Despite these grave concerns, many celebrities and athletes have turned a blind eye to these issues, choosing instead to perform or participate in events in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the kingdom’s efforts at sportswashing and culture-washing. This practice is a deliberate attempt to distract from human rights abuses by hosting high-profile events, thus polishing the country’s global image.
Prominent names such as Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, David Guetta, and WWE stars have performed in Saudi Arabia, often drawing criticism for their involvement in these events. These performances and participations not only lend legitimacy to the regime but also help it to divert attention from its war in Yemen, the repression within its borders, and the broader crackdowns on freedom of expression.
As Macklemore rightly pointed out, celebrities and public figures have immense power. They can use their platforms to mobilize collective action and bring global attention to human rights issues. By choosing to stand on the right side of history, they can inspire change and encourage others to do the same. Unfortunately, when they ignore these issues and continue to perform in repressive regimes, they become complicit in the very abuses they should be condemning.
The entertainment industry must do better. It is time for celebrities to take a stand, as Macklemore did, and refuse to participate in events that serve to whitewash the crimes of repressive regimes. By prioritizing human rights over money, they can send a powerful message that the world is watching and that they will not be complicit in the suffering of others.
The call is clear: To all celebrities and athletes, if you truly care about justice, human rights, and the dignity of all people, reconsider your involvement in events that serve only to bolster the image of those who commit atrocities. Use your influence for good, and help to bring about the change that the world so desperately needs. The time to act is now.
