Lauryn Hill Cancels Israel Performance After Failing To Book Palestinian Show

Ms. Lauryn Hill has made it clear that she does not want to play sides in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Hill was scheduled to perform in Tel Aviv, Israel on May 7th, but was also aiming to perform in Ramallah, a city in the Palestinian Territory. However, complications prevented her from booking the latter, and, rather than perform in Israel only, Hill is cancelling both shows entirely.

You can read the statement posted on her Facebook page:

Dear Friends and Fans in Israel,

When deciding to play the region, my intention was to perform in both Tel Aviv and Ramallah. Setting up a performance in the Palestinian Territory, at the same time as our show in Israel, proved to be a challenge. I’ve wanted very much to bring our live performance to this part of the world, but also to be a presence supporting justice and peace. It is very important to me that my presence or message not be misconstrued, or a source of alienation to either my Israeli or my Palestinian fans. For this reason, we have decided to cancel the upcoming performance in Israel, and seek a different strategy to bring my music to ALL of my fans in the region. May healing, equanimity, and the openness necessary for lasting resolution and reconciliation come to this region and its people.

Respectfully,
Ms. Lauryn Hill