TV chef Nadiya Hussain has shared a video that discusses the concept of "white tears," a term used to describe when a white person's emotional response is perceived as deflecting from issues of racism or oppression. This follows singer Ed Sheeran's emotional on-stage comments regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict and the subsequent dropping of his support act, Macklemore, due to his pro-Palestine stance.
Sheeran, 35, expressed distress during recent concerts, stating he was unsure if future dates would proceed and that he felt abandoned by friends and family amidst the controversy. He had initially aimed to keep his shows apolitical but later called the situation in Gaza "catastrophic and unjustifiable" and the Hamas attacks "horrific."
The video shared by Hussain, a devout Muslim, featured British therapist Megan Cooper explaining "white tears" as a tactic to "deflect accountability, to gain sympathy, and to centre self in conflict and challenge, particularly during discussions around racism and oppression." Cooper added that in such cases, emotion can be prioritized over the issue itself, questioning whose tears are seen and heard in society.
Macklemore was removed from several tour dates after stadium owners reportedly objected to his outspoken support for Palestine. Sheeran stated that the decision to drop Macklemore was not his own but that of the promoter. He also noted that Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, allegedly rallied other stadium owners to issue an ultimatum.
Sheeran has faced criticism from various figures, including Pink Floyd's Roger Waters and his own cousin, Jethro Sheeran, who called him a "coward" for dropping Macklemore. Other artists and tour openers, such as Finneas, Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham, and the band Beoga, have also withdrawn from tour dates in solidarity.
During a concert in Philadelphia, Sheeran addressed the situation, stating he had to make difficult decisions and acknowledged making mistakes. He expressed his desire for his shows to be about unity and love, not division or politics. He also voiced concern over venues pre-approving content, calling it a worrying trend.
Despite the controversy and the withdrawal of his openers, Sheeran vowed to continue his tour, emphasizing his commitment to his fans. He expressed gratitude for the audience's presence, stating, "This gives hope." He concluded the Philadelphia show by apologizing for the non-musical portion of his performance, which he felt he needed to deliver.