Former Sonic Youth frontman Thurston Moore has finally revealed why he canceled a Tel Aviv performance two months ago.
In a letter published as part of an article by The Quietus about musicians boycotting Israel over the treatment of Palestinians, Moore explains that he cancelled the concert because of his support of the BDS Movement and his belief in "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.
The letter continues, revealing that after scheduling the April 27th Tel Aviv performance and after "serious deliberation," Moore soon "arrived at the 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. "
Moore is part of a long list of artists, up to over 1000 British Artists alone, who have boycotted and protested against Israel. Other participants include Lana Del Rey, Lauryn Hill, Pixies, Neil Young, Gorillaz, Klaxons and Elvis Costello.
"When Sonic Youth played Tel Aviv in 1996 it was an amazing, wonderful experience and education," Moore wrote in conclusion. "I hope to return soon."
