Brakence is taking a stand amid the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. On Wednesday (Oct. 18), the hyperpop musician announced on social media that he will be helping Palestinians affected by Israel’s attacks on the Palestinian enclave of Gaza by donating proceeds from the North American leg of his The Hypochondriac (Is Still On) Tour to humanitarian aid organizations that will benefit refugees.
“I am aware of the imperialistic, oppressive and violent nature of Israel’s government and the disproportionate death and suffering Palestinians are currently facing and have been experiencing for decades 100% of the new proceeds (ticket sales and merchandise) that I make from the North American leg of this tour will be donated and split between: the Palestine Appeal of Ummah Welfare Trust, providing humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza, and Anera, providing humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza and Palestinian refugees in Lebanon and Jordan,” he wrote.
The 21-year-old explained that he chose the charities due to their low or nonexistent administrative costs, and will start the donations process ahead of his tour — which kicks off Oct. 24 in Columbus, Ohio — “due to the time sensitive nature of this conflict and donating any further profits after collection.”
Brakence concluded his announcement by saying that he is “having challenging conversations” regarding the matter and believes “ending any of my personal or professional relationships over disagreements on this is counterproductive.”
The musician’s decision comes less than two weeks after the Oct. 7 airstrike by militant group Hamas, who launched a surprise attack on Israel. Hamas — which has been designated a terrorist group by numerous countries including the United States and European Union — fired thousands of rockets and sent combatants into Israeli towns, which resulted in the deaths of more than a thousand in Israel, CNN reported. During Hamas’ attack on Israel, the militant group also kidnapped about 200 Israelis and is holding them captive, according to The Associated Press.
Israel has fought back by attacking targets in Gaza, with Palestinian authorities reporting that thousands have been killed, and many more in need of aid. The conflict has led to a war between Israel and Hamas, who controls the Gaza Strip, a narrow piece of land between Israel and Egypt.
See Brakence’s statement below.
