SXSW Festival Faces Artist Boycotts Over Military Sponsorships

Artists withdraw from the Austin-based event, citing U.S. Army and defense industry ties amid the Israel-Gaza conflict.

• Over 80 artists and speakers have canceled their SXSW appearances in protest of military and defense industry sponsorships.
• The boycotts are in solidarity with Palestinians, highlighting the festival's connections to the U.S. Army and defense contractors amid the Israel-Gaza conflict.
• Texas Governor Greg Abbott's dismissive response to the boycotts sparks further controversy, telling artists, 'Bye. Don’t come back.'
• SXSW organizers defend their military sponsorships, emphasizing the importance of diverse viewpoints and the role of the defense industry in technological innovation.
• The artist boycotts and the festival's stance have ignited discussions on the intersection of art, politics, and corporate sponsorship.

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