Singer Thurston Moore says support for BDS led to cancellation of Israel gig
Two months after nixing Tel Aviv concert, former Sonic Youth frontman issues statement saying it was a choice of 'non-violent activism'.
Former Sonic Youth frontman Thurston Moore cancelled his Tel Aviv concert two months ago because he decided to support the boycott against Israel, explaining the decision was "empowerment through choice of non-violent activism."
"Since it was founded in 2005 I have honored the Palestinian BDS call by not accepting offers to perform in Israel, though all the while having the inherent belief in the importance of bringing music, art, education (love) to friends. With cursory knowledge of the boycott's principles and not exactly concurring with the aspects of requesting certain limitations on cultural exchange I reconsidered and accepted a kind offer from promoters in Tel Aviv," he explained to The Quietus.
"It was with serious deliberation that I eventually arrived at the personal conclusion that to perform with my band in Israel was in direct conflict to my values. With the realization that a cultural and academic boycott is central to its purpose in exposing a reality of brutal human rights violations – including those accompanying Israel's discriminatory laws and occupation of the West Bank - I felt the need, with humility, to cancel the engagement," he went on to say.
He noted that "When Sonic Youth played Tel Aviv in 1996 it was an amazing, wonderful experience and education. I hope to return soon," adding that at present, "I've made the decision, with certitude, to fully acknowledge the dedication of the boycott until the time comes for it to be unnecessary."
Moore was supposed to perform at the Barby Club in Tel Aviv on April 27.
