Rapper Macklemore is making headlines with a surprise new song that supports college students protesting Israel’s actions in Gaza. The track, released on Monday, is titled “Hind’s Hall,” named after a building at Columbia University temporarily renamed by pro-Palestinian protesters.
In the song, Macklemore becomes one of the first major music artists to openly criticize the US government’s support for Israel and applauds students protesting their universities’ investments in companies tied to Israel.
He raps, “The problem isn’t the protests, it’s what they’re protesting. It goes against what our country is funding.”
Macklemore aligns with pro-Palestinian protesters who vow not to vote for President Biden due to his support for Israel. This sentiment raises concerns among Democrats about losing support from young voters critical of Biden’s approach to the conflict.
The song also condemns the police response to campus protests, citing instances of forceful intervention at various universities.
Across the US, pro-Palestinian protesters are occupying campuses and calling for divestment from Israel. However, these demonstrations have prompted large counterprotests in support of Israel.
The significance of naming the building ‘Hind’s Hall’ stems from a tragic incident in Gaza, where a Palestinian child named Hind Rajab died in Israeli gunfire along with her relatives.
Macklemore’s lyrics reflect on the human toll of the conflict, urging listeners, politicians, and fellow artists to consider the impact of the war.
In the song, Macklemore also criticizes the music industry’s silence on the issue and expresses support for a “free Palestine.” Proceeds from the song will go to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
Macklemore has been vocal about his support for Palestinians since last year, attending pro-Palestinian events and speaking out against violence in Gaza. Despite facing accusations of antisemitism in the past, he continues to use his platform to advocate for social and political causes, much like he did with LGBTQ rights and opposition to Donald Trump.
