Understand
Jewish leaders call for Fontaines D.C. concerts in Manchester to be cancelled
Overview
The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester has called for two upcoming Fontaines D.C. concerts at Heaton Park in July 2027 to be cancelled, citing concerns that the band's comments and chants regarding the Middle East could import tensions into the UK and lead to targeted antisemitism. Manchester City Council stated it is working with the community to ensure robust safeguards and event management plans are in place.
Key points
- The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester (JRC) raised profound concerns with Manchester City Council over Fontaines D.C.'s planned gigs on 3 and 4 July 2027.
- The JRC expressed worries that the band's support for the Palestinian cause and criticism of Israel risk importing Middle East tensions and increasing antisemitism in the UK.
- Manchester City Council confirmed it has met with the JRC and will ensure appropriate mitigations, licensing compliance, and security are in place.
- The JRC clarified that its objections are focused on potential inflammatory rhetoric rather than legitimate political expression or Heaton Park hosting concerts generally.
