Mosaïque Magazine's Special Issue on Palestinian Rap and Solidarity

In its fifteenth edition, Mosaïque Magazine has dedicated its cover to the Palestinian cause and its rap artists, featuring notable names such as Theodora, Pomme, Ino Casablanca, and 127 other artists who are calling for the liberation of Palestine. This special issue comes at a time when taking a stand on the urgent Palestinian situation still faces considerable pressure within the music industry. For many, this manifesto represents a crucial opportunity to break their silence or reaffirm their support for the cause.

Launched in 2022, Mosaïque Magazine has established itself as an independent quarterly that bridges societal issues with hip-hop culture. Its latest charitable issue, published on September 14, places Palestinian rap at the forefront of this intersection. Within its pages, titled "Rap Belongs to Everyone Except the Oppressor," readers will find the usual features such as interviews, portfolios, columns, portraits, and investigations, along with a manifesto advocating for the liberation of Palestine.

Support for Palestinian Artists and Activism

Every purchase of this magazine contributes directly to two Palestinian rappers. A notable 20% of the profits from this issue will be donated to BSHNDY, co-founder of the Gaza-based label Vent, and Ayman Jamal Mghames, a rapper and activist. Rap, originally a protest music style, serves as a voice for oppressed minorities, and Mosaïque begins its manifesto with a provocative quote from Calbo: "Who claims to rap without taking a stand?" This question resonates with 130 artists who have signed the manifesto written by DJ Missy Ness. The list includes Theodora, Ebony, Ino Casablanca, and others who are demanding that the French government cease its "unconditional support for Israeli policies."

Additionally, the issue highlights the ongoing challenges faced by artists who choose to speak out. Recently, rapper Macklemore faced repercussions for his support of Palestine, which led to his removal from Ed Sheeran's U.S. tour. Despite his continuous advocacy since 2024, including public statements and songs like "HIND’S HALL" and "HIND’S HALL 2" in support of university protests, Macklemore reported that his call to free Palestine during a concert on September 4 resulted in him being dropped from the tour. This incident reveals the intense pressures artists face, as fellow musician P!nk also criticized his pro-Palestinian stance on social media. The concert tour's backers, including businessman Robert Kraft, made it clear that Ed Sheeran would not perform in their venues if Macklemore remained on the bill. The cancellation of Macklemore's performance, despite the stated pressures, is viewed by many as an act of complicity and passive tolerance. Mosaïque poignantly asks on its cover, "Genocide in Gaza, what is music doing?"

As reported by tsugi.fr.