Rapper Macklemore has released a new song titled “Hind’s Hall,” in which he praises college students across the US protesting Israel’s war in Gaza. The Grammy-winning artist becomes one of the first major music artists to condemn the US government’s aid to Israel explicitly. In the song, Macklemore voices support for students protesting their universities’ financial ties to companies associated with Israel.
The song also addresses the issue of police intervention at college campus protests. Several universities called on law enforcement to disperse protesters, resulting in arrests and disciplinary actions against students. Pro-Palestinian protesters have been occupying lawns and buildings on campuses, urging their universities to divest from Israel.
The song references the tragic death of Palestinian child Hind Rajab in Gaza, along with the thousands of children killed in the conflict. Macklemore calls out the music industry for its silence on the issue and urges listeners, politicians, and fellow artists to consider the human cost of the war.
While Macklemore is one of the few major artists to address the conflict, other musicians like Dua Lipa, Jon Batiste, and Selena Gomez have signed a letter calling for a ceasefire. Scottish singer Annie Lennox also spoke out against the violence at the Grammys.
All proceeds from Macklemore’s song will go to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. The rapper has been a vocal supporter of Palestinians, advocating for a ceasefire and condemning mass killings and apartheid by the Israeli government.
Macklemore’s political activism is not new, as he has previously made statements supporting LGBTQ equality and criticizing former President Donald Trump. Despite facing accusations of antisemitism in the past, Macklemore continues to use his platform to raise awareness about social and political issues.
Protests against the war in Gaza persist on college campuses, with students advocating for change despite disciplinary actions and cancellations of events by universities.
