Gothic duo Big Special have released a statement regarding their decision to play at The Great Escape festival, which has faced controversy due to its sponsorship by Barclays Bank amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Many bands and artists have boycotted the festival in solidarity with Palestine, however, the duo has decided to perform and donate their fee to the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund, which will be matched by their label.
While acknowledging that they support the decision to boycott the festival, Big Special explained that they stayed involved due to the widespread involvement of Barclays in the industry and to avoid being “dishonest” by boycotting events connected to “dirty money.” They also expressed concern over the silencing of Palestinian voices and the need for meaningful voices to stand up against injustice.
Over 100 artists have pulled out of The Great Escape in solidarity with Palestine, and over half of the festival’s lineup has signed an open statement calling for the partnership with Barclays to end. Massive Attack has also expressed its support for the walkout, and the Musicians’ Union has issued a statement in solidarity with those boycotting the event.
Barclays claims that it merely trades in shares of listed companies in response to client instruction or demand and that it is
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