Canadian border authorities deny entry to a member of the rap group, ensuing potential lawsuit from the group.
Canadian Parliamentary Secretary for Crime Prevention, Vince Gasparro, has announced the ban of Irish rap group Kneecap from entering the country due to allegations of glorifying terrorist organisations and advocating political violence.
The decision comes after Kneecap was deemed ineligible to enter Canada due to their conduct. The group had been scheduled to play four concerts in Toronto and Vancouver next month, which have since been cancelled.
The ban was prompted by accusations that Kneecap has publicly supported militant groups including the Iran-backed Lebanese Hezbollah and the Palestinian Hamas. Mr Gasparro stated that advocating for political violence, glorifying terrorist organisations, and displaying hate symbols are not protected forms of expression in Canada.
The allegations against Kneecap stem from an incident in November 2024, when Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, a member of Kneecap, was charged with a terrorism offence in Britain for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a London gig. Ó hAnnaidh has denied the charge and claimed the flag had been thrown on stage during the performance.
In response to the ban, Kneecap has threatened legal action against Mr Gasparro and has promised to donate every cent they win from a potential court case to assist child amputees in Gaza. The group has also denied allegations of glorifying terrorist organizations and advocating political violence.
In addition, Kneecap has accused Israel of committing war crimes at the Glastonbury Festival in June. However, Israel denies the accusation.
Notably, Kneecap has stated that they condemn 'all attacks on civilians, always.' The group's response to the allegations and the ban has sparked a heated debate about freedom of speech and the role of art in promoting political violence.
A decision on whether the case against Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh can go ahead is expected later this month. The ban on Kneecap's entry into Canada remains in effect until further notice.
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