Olly Alexander calls for ‘immediate’ Gaza ceasefire amid Eurovision boycott calls
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Olly Alexander, the lead singer of Years & Years and star of “It’s A Sin,” has joined other Eurovision stars in calling for an “immediate and lasting” ceasefire in Gaza amid the ongoing Israel–Hamas war. The singer, who is set to represent the UK in Malmö with his track “Dizzy,” has faced pressure to boycott the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest due to the participation of Israel in the competition.
A group of more than 450 queer artists, public figures, and organizations signed an open letter urging Olly Alexander to withdraw from the competition. The conflict in Gaza, triggered by an attack on southern Israel by Hamas, has resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people and more than 30,000 estimated Palestinian deaths.
The disqualification of states due to conflict is not unprecedented, as Russia was banned from competing at Eurovision in 2022 after Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. In response to the calls for boycott, Olly Alexander and other 2024 Eurovision acts, including Ireland’s non-binary artist Bambie Thug, released a statement expressing their solidarity with the oppressed and their wish for peace, an immediate ceasefire, and the safe return of all hostages.
The group emphasized their stand against all forms of hate, including antisemitism and Islamophobia. They highlighted the unifying power of music in fostering meaningful conversations and connections. Despite calls for withdrawal, Olly Alexander explained that he believes staying in the contest would allow them to use the platform to call for peace.
He acknowledged and respected those who choose to boycott the event but expressed his belief that leaving the competition would not bring them closer to ending the atrocities in Gaza. Renée Rapp, another advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza, made similar calls at the GLAAD Media Awards, emphasizing the importance of advocating for those who cannot do so themselves.
Olly Alexander’s plea for a ceasefire comes as a powerful message from the entertainment industry to use their platforms for social change. The singer’s decision to stay in the Eurovision contest despite the controversy demonstrates his commitment to promoting peace and solidarity with those affected by the conflict.
In a world where conflicts continue to devastate communities, it is heartening to see artists like Olly Alexander using their influence to advocate for peace and justice. By standing up for what they believe in and using their voices to amplify marginalized voices, these artists are setting an example for others in the industry to follow.
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