Irish rap trio Kneecap has announced plans to take legal action against a Canadian MP after being banned from entering Canada due to alleged anti-Israel views. The ban, which prohibits the group from performing at four scheduled shows in Toronto and Vancouver, is the latest example of restrictions imposed by Western governments on musicians with pro-Palestinian stances.
Canadian MP Vince Gasparro confirmed the ban in a video posted on social media, stating that the government will not tolerate the advocating of political violence, terrorism, or anti-Semitism. However, Kneecap has dismissed the allegations, calling them “wholly untrue and deeply malicious.” The group’s lawyers will initiate legal action against Gasparro over his statements.
Kneecap has previously stated that they do not support Hamas or Hezbollah, although one of the group’s members, Liam Og O hAnnaidh, is currently facing a charge in the UK for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a rally in 2024. He denies the accusation, and the case has been adjourned until September 26.
The incident is not isolated, as several artists have faced institutional pressure over their pro-Palestine statements in recent months. In April, American singer Kehlani had a show at Cornell University cancelled due to her pro-Palestine views. In May, Irish post-punk group Murder Capital was dropped from venues in Germany after displaying a Palestinian flag on stage. In July, the US revoked the visas of members of English punk rap duo Bob Vylan following pro-Gaza remarks at Glastonbury Music Festival in the UK.
Kneecap has vowed to donate any potential court winnings to assist child amputees in Gaza. The group’s statement on social media emphasized their commitment to pursuing legal action, saying “when we beat you in court, which we will, we will donate every cent to assist some of the thousands of child amputees in Gaza.” The incident highlights the ongoing debate over free speech and artistic expression, particularly when it comes to sensitive political issues.
