Macklemore Faces Renewed Antisemitism Accusations Over Pro-Palestinian Advocacy

Rapper Benjamin Haggerty, known as Macklemore, is facing renewed accusations of antisemitism tied to his criticism of Israel and his pro-Palestinian activism, according to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA) and The Jerusalem Post (JPost).

The accusations trace back to 2014. In May of that year, Macklemore faced backlash over a costume that many perceived as a Jewish stereotype, which included a large hooked prosthetic nose, a black wig, and a bushy beard. JPost described the criticism as “Jewface” accusations. Macklemore later apologized for the costume. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) accepted the apology. JPost reported that Abe Foxman, then the ADL’s director, accepted the apology and said he believed Macklemore had no ill intent. JTA reported only that the ADL accepted the apology and did not name Foxman.

According to JTA, tensions resurfaced after the Gaza conflict that began on October 7, 2023. Both outlets report that Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian stance led to his cancellation from opening for Ed Sheeran at several stadiums. Neither report gives the reasons the promoters or performers gave for those cancellations.

The ADL criticized Macklemore’s recent actions as “unacceptable,” according to both reports. JTA and JPost both state that Macklemore has not apologized for his recent pro-Palestinian comments.

Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium in Boston, barred Macklemore from performing at the venue. Kraft cited a “broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery” as the reason. JTA describes Kraft as a pro-Israel billionaire. The reports do not give a date for the ban.

In May 2024, Macklemore released the song “Hind’s Hall,” which honors pro-Palestinian protesters at Columbia University, JPost reported.