Tonya Pinkins-Helmed BROADWAY SUPPORTS BLACK LIVES MATTER Concert Cancelled at Feinstein's/54 Below — Page 2

The problem is, by adopting an anti-Israel plank, which has nothing to do with police action in America, the organization seems to be saying, "If you don't hate Israel, we don't want your support." And so they lose support.

Perhaps 54 Below delayed its response because it was genuinely torn on what was the right thing to do.

This is ridiculous. 54 Below is in the wrong here.

I was unaware that BLM's platform included this. I have to side with 54 Below on this. BLM should stay focused on Black lives here in the states. That is what started this movement. Just my opinion.

While I agree with you to an extent, I don't think it's as clear cut as you're trying to make it. How is what that baker in Texas who refused to make a wedding cake for a gay couple any different? Is it different? Are we cool with that? Are we cool with denying service based political beliefs?

Additionally... you're the first one to mention anyone has been silenced or censored. I think it's an interesting and valid discussion... regardless of whether or not they have the freedom to do so.

Updated On: 9/9/16 at 01:26 PM

"I think it's an interesting and valid discussion... regardless of whether or not they have the freedom to do so."

I agree completely. The Texas (actually Colorado) bakery example is worth noting, I think; the difference here, pointed out by the ACLU, is that Colorado state law prohibits public accommodations and businesses from refusing service based on race, sex, marital status, or sexual orientation. And that's not the case in this particular instance. In fact, an argument can be made that 54 Below is severing ties with an organization that disseminates hate speech (regardless of one's stance on the Middle East and who is "right" or "wrong" there).

Oh, yes, right - and I don't think the ACLU has touched that one yet, have they? I would imagine that, as there's no law against it, they would, by definition, have to support the rights of Kern’s Bakery, who haven't actually broken any laws. Right? So many of us would call that morally wrong, legally within rights.

Of course, it doesn't mean that the couple can't have a cake; they just won't get it from that bakery. And until Texas changes its laws (don't hold your breath), there's not much to be done.

To me it feels like "anyone who believes otherwise is wrong and must change" is exactly what Fienstein's/54 Below is saying with this cancellation. They obviously have a right to say so and I'm glad they have a freedom to do so.

I just think it's really tacky. Especially to do so three days before the event.

Sorry but the biggest problem that has led to this is that BLM have an identity problem.

I think the framework in which people view BLM's stance on Israel is a bit narrow, given that their position isn't strictly limited to the plight of Palestinians, but also specifically to the perceived marginalization of black Israelis/Israelis of African lineage. That I think was a decisive factor in which BLM decided to add BDS to its platform.

I can't imagine the financial pressure from supporters and backers to cancel the event. That's probably why they canceled it, and canceled it so close.

newintown said: "Isn't the bottom line this? - No matter where you personally stand on BLM, Israel, Palestine, or any other polarizing issue, 54 Below has the right to rent their space or decline to rent their space to anyone. That's what "freedom" means. And isn't that terrific? And you get to do the same thing with your property. No one has been silenced, censored, or harmed; a venue has merely declined to host an event."

Absolutely.

Jorge, I get what you are saying but this is a benefit concert where ticket proceeds go towards a cause. There may be people who have purchased tickets who don't agree with this addition they have made. And it looks like it was done after the venue was booked. I am sure at if the show went ahead as planned and people who bought tickets but don't agree with this addition to the cause found out, let's say during a speech at the show, there would be complaints to the venue

Updated On: 9/9/16 at 08:41 PM

I was waiting...