Currently in the middle of a US tour, acclaimed Irish artist Síomha has had her sold-out gig in Kansas City cancelled due to her "pro-Palestinian views", she claims.

"[The gig's organisers] reached out some weeks ago, before we even left for the States, to say that my opinions online were 'a cause for great concern', and they were worried these opinions may 'offend some of the guests,'" the singer-songwriter revealed on Instagram. "Their decision to cancel directly overrides the individual choice made by each person to buy a ticket to my show."

However, since sharing the "disappointing news", Síomha has now announced that she'll be playing a fundraiser gig for Gaza in Kansas City instead – taking place at the Greenwood Social Hall this Wednesday, August 28.

All proceeds from the newly announced gig will go to ACLAÍ Palestine's 'Ride For Gaza' campaign, which is helping families in Gaza through vital food packages and aid. You can also donate directly to the campaign here.

"For the record, it is not merely my opinion that Israel is an apartheid state who are committing a genocide against the people of Palestine – it is also the opinion of leading human rights organisations, and any government with any sense," Síomha remarked online.

"My role as an artist is to speak out against injustice at every opportunity, and I will continue to do so," she continued. "A show being cancelled on me is nothing compared to the horrors that are being inflicted on the people of Palestine right now. These horrors are being committed by the EU, the UK and the USA.

"I encourage you all to use your platform towards collective liberation, no matter what. Solidarity literally means unity, and it requires sustained and ongoing commitment. And it comes at a cost. But don't let that cost deter. Please don't stop speaking out. This is how we win a better world, by coming together in solidarity. Free Palestine."

In her caption, Síomha noted that she and her band "have negotiated to be paid in full for this show", given that they upheld their end of the contract.

Síomha released her acclaimed debut album, Infinite Space, in 2022. Featuring songs in both Irish and English, the LP was produced by Grammy nominee Tyler Duncan (Carly Rae Jepsen/Theo Katzman/the olllam).

Tickets for Síomha's fundraiser gig in Kansas City are available here.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by S Í O M H A (@siomhamusic)