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Macklemore Criticizes ICE As He Launches ‘Free Palestine’ Tour
The concert was Macklemore’s first since he was dropped from Ed Sheeran’s tour.
Top Weekly Entertainment Picks
Get ready for a full weekend of headline concerts and seasonal fun in South Jersey. Hear Godsmack perform live at Hard Rock, enjoy a seasonal market with
Home State Health, McCormack Baron Salazar and Urban Strategies, Inc. Announce Preservation Square Community Partnership to Support Families with Services, Economic Opportunity
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President Trump talks data centers and staying in politics with Tricia Macke
FOX19 NOW’s Tricia Macke interviewed the president on one of the most contentious topics Tri-State residents
President Trump talks data centers and staying in politics with Tricia Macke
President addresses property tax concerns and reflects on staying in politics during interview with Tricia Macke.
You can still get into Macklemore’s sold-out Red Rocks Amphitheatre show for under $100
The Seattle rapper plays a sold-out show in Morrison on Oct. 22.
Alabama's CFP Hopes Smacked With Jarring Reality Check
The Alabama Crimson Tide are in danger of missing the CFP.
Why Los Angeles Chargers Could Trade Star Linebacker
The Los Angeles Chargers could consider trading veteran linebacker Khalil Mack before the NFL trade deadline as the team evaluates its direction for the remainder of the 2026 season. With potential changes to the roster under discussion, moving an established defensive player could provide draft capital while allowing the franchise to reassess its long-term priorities. […] The post Why Los Angeles Chargers Could Trade Star Linebacker appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
Florida science standards debate heads to Orange County listening session
Florida Education Commissioner Henry Mack defended a proposed rewrite of public school science standards, saying it still includes evolution and climate science. An October 27 listening session in Orange County will give Apopka families and educators an opportunity to discuss the changes before a planned December vote.
New K-12 science curriculum scrutinized; December vote by Board of Ed expected
Education Commissioner Henry Mack spent part of Wednesday’s Board of Education meeting trying to set the record straight on the department’s initiative to re-write science standards for public schools. The standards, which have not been updated since 2008, are undergoing public review. A stop on a “listening tour” for the standards is scheduled for the […]
Beacon CEO ML Mackey Named to Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Statewide Advisory Council
Beacon Interactive Systems announced today that CEO and Co-founder ML Mackey has been named to the newly formed Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC) Statewide Advisory Council.
Greta Gerwig's 'Narnia' movie trailer offers a first glimpse of Meryl Streep's Aslan in Netflix epic
The reported $280 million fantasy movie, which arrives in theaters in February, stars Daniel Craig and Emma Mackey.
Chargers, Bills Presented With Intriguing Khalil Mack Trade Idea
The Los Angeles Chargers are 0-5, and teams are likely looking at the veteran players that they could pursue with the trade deadline nearing on Nov. 10. One of the names teams are looking at is veteran edge rusher Khalil Mack. Despite the Chargers struggling, Mack has produced on defense. Mack has had eight solo […] The post Chargers, Bills Presented With Intriguing Khalil Mack Trade Idea appeared first on HEAVY.
Bob Mackie's surprising cause of death is revealed
A death certificate reveals fashion icon Bob Mackie’s true cause of death, clarifying initial reports that the designer died of pneumonia.
Should the Detroit Lions Trade for Khalil Mack?
Khalil Mack could shake loose in Los Angeles, and Detroit has the cap room for him. #Lions
Hurts Smacks Down Defense With Massive 62-yard Cooper Strike
Jalen Hurts finds undrafted rookie Darius Cooper for a massive 62-yard touchdown in London. See how this play defined the Eagles' game against the Jaguars.
New Ed Sheeran tour openers revealed after Macklemore controversy
NEW YORK — Ed Sheeran has found a couple of new opening acts for the United States leg of his Loop Tour amid controversy sparked by his ex-opener, Macklemore, who
Bills Get Significant Update on Khalil Mack Trade Rumors
The Buffalo Bills could be falling out of the running to land linebacker Khalil Mack on the trade market. The post Bills Get Significant Update on Khalil Mack Trade Rumors appeared first on HEAVY.
Bob Mackie’s death certificate reveals shocking new details after rep confirmed designer died of pneumonia
The fashion designer suffered a fall in the days before his death.
WWE's Michael Cole refuses to dip his toe into political waters, bucking trend among sports broadcasters
Michael Cole explains why he never makes political statements during WWE broadcasts, calling himself an actor playing a role in scripted entertainment.
The Macklin Celebrini injury reports do not add up
The Sharks refuted a TSN report about the origins of Celebrini's injury.
Should the Cowboys Be Interested in a Khalil Mack Trade?
Khalil Mack could become available if the Chargers keep losing. Should the Cowboys explore a trade for the 35-year-old pass rusher?
Los Angeles Chargers news: Would you trade Khalil Mack?
If this Chargers season is deemed a lost cause, should they think about trading away Khalil Mack while he’s valuable?
Florida commissioner’s social media on science standards aims for attention
The big story: When Henry Mack III became Florida’s education commissioner in the summer, public education advocates expressed high hopes for the positive way he kicked things off with school official...
Miami Marlins Hitting Core Emerges After Strong Season
Hit king Otto Lopez and defensive powerhouse Joe Mack lead a surging youth movement, signaling a turning point for the franchise following a productive 80-win campaign.
Chourio walk-off single lifts Brewers over Padres
Jackson Chourio smacked a walk-off two-run single to give the Milwaukee Brewers a 4-3 victory over the San Diego Padres on Sunday and a commanding 2-0 lead in their Major League Baseball playoff series.For the second straight day the Brewers rallied from 2-0 down to beat the Padres, who are now in survival mode as the best-of-five National League division series shifts to San Diego for game three on Tuesday.
Ed Sheeran's newest opening act praises Macklemore amid tour drama
After other musical acts quit his tour following Macklemore's removal for pro-Palestinian messaging during a performance, Ed Sheeran found a replacement opening act for a night.
Ed Sheeran's new tour opener speaks out on Macklemore, calls for 'common ground'
After other musical acts quit his tour following Macklemore's removal for pro-Palestinian messaging during a performance, Ed Sheeran has found a replacement opening act.
Patriots WR Mack Hollins exits game with non-contact injury
Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins hopped off the field of Sunday's game against the Bills with an injury.
Ed Sheeran Joined By First 'Special Guest' Since Opening Acts Dropped Him
Macklemore was removed from the tour following remarks that included “Free Palestine,” and other support acts left in solidarity.
Patriots fan-favorite fined twice for same Week 3 play
Patriots veteran wide receiver Mack Hollins was hit with two fines from the same play in last week's game against the Jaguars.
Mack Hollins fined twice on the same play, losing $34,441
The NFL fined Patriots receiver Mack Hollins $34,441 for his actions on the same play against the Jaguars.
Food and entertainment combine for Octoberfest fun
Food, face painting, live music, inflatables and yard games combined for a family-friendly atmosphere Saturday during Octoberfest at Meineke Park in Schaumburg. The Mackenzie O'Brien kicked off the li...
Zach Bryan defies Gillette Stadium's Macklemore ban with politically charged shirt
Country singer Zach Bryan’s latest political fashion statement might add more fuel to the ongoing Ed Sheeran-Macklemore tour drama.
Zach Bryan wears 'Free Palestine' shirt at Robert Kraft's Gillette Stadium
Country music star Zach Bryan signaled his support with a 'Free Palestine' shirt at Robert Kraft's Gillette Stadium, a venue that recently banned rapper Macklemore over his efforts to do the same.
Zach Bryan sparks debate after wearing 'Free Palestine' shirt at venue that barred Macklemore
Zach Bryan took the stage in a "Free Palestine" shirt at Robert Kraft's Gillette Stadium, just weeks after Kraft barred Macklemore from the venue.
Chargers Star Khalil Mack Emerges as Top Trade Candidate
Khalil Mack and the Los Angeles Chargers entered the 2026 season with Super Bowl aspirations. While the defense has been solid, the offense has not held up its end of the bargain.The Chargers sit at 0-3 and are gearing up for a road game against the Seattle Seahawks. This follows a loss in Buffalo in […] The post Chargers Star Khalil Mack Emerges as Top Trade Candidate appeared first on HEAVY.
‘Unbelievable’: CNN Political Director Gobsmacked as GOP Retreats From North Carolina, Pours Cash Into Kansas
Ed Sheeran, Macklemore fallout shouldn't be personalized, Bono says
U2 frontman Bono has weighed in on the ongoing controversy involving Ed Sheeran after Macklemore was removed from the singer's tour when venues objected to the rapper's pro-Palestinian remarks.
Macklemore announces his ‘Free Palestine’ tour dates sold out
Rapper Macklemore is thrilled that the “Free Palestine” tour he launched after being booted from Ed Sheeran’s lineup has sold out its upcoming shows overseas. “I’m honestly blown away. We
‘Gobsmacked’: Florida parents, teachers decry changes to science education
The state’s education commissioner, responding to criticism, said Thursday he was “not advocating religious influence in the standards.”
Bono Says Ed Sheeran Worried About Getting 'Into Politics' on Their Song About the War in Ukraine
Sheeran and U2 collaborated on "Yours Eternally" earlier this year before his Free Palestine fallout with Macklemore
Bono Said When U2 Worked With Ed Sheeran on ‘Yours Eternally,’ Singer Asked, ‘You’re Not Going To Get Me Into Politics, Are You?’
The Rock Hall of Famer said he didn't want to "personalize" the recent fallout between Sheeran and Macklemore over the rapper's pro-Palestine statements.
Bono Said Ed Sheeran Wanted to Avoid Politics While Working on U2 Collab
Bono avoided weighing in on the Ed Sheeran-Macklemore dust-up, noting Sheeran told U2 he preferred to avoid politics on their "Yours Eternally" collab.
Sharks Name 2026-27 Alternate Captains, Why Nurse Was Chosen
The San Jose Sharks have a new captain, and a new alternate captain. Last Friday, the Sharks named Macklin Celebrini […] The post Sharks Name 2026-27 Alternate Captains, Why Nurse Was Chosen appeared first on San Jose Hockey Now .
When “DEI” research is cut, what happens to community health?
“I’m just going to run to the grocery store!” How many times have we said this without thinking about it? For most of us, it's usually an easy walk or a short drive to get the cheese we forgot. In reality, though, 13% of the U.S. population (about 39 million people) live in “food deserts,” which means living more than a mile from a grocery store in urban areas and more than 10 miles in rural areas. This was the case for people in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, where a quick run to buy food wasn’t an option. In the 1930s, federal maps marked the Hill as "hazardous" for lending, a practice known as redlining that steered investment away from Black neighborhoods. Decades of disinvestment followed, and residents went about 30 years without a nearby grocery store. This made it hard to keep healthy eating habits and contributed to chronic disease. When a grocery store finally opened in the area in 2013, researchers saw the opportunity and launched the PHRESH study, which initially compared the health of participants from the Hill district to those in the Homewood district. Over time, the study expanded to other factors such as brain health and Alzheimer's risk. Residents like Roderick Blair overcame initial hesitation to share their health data, trusting it would benefit their neighborhood. Then, in August 2026, the NIH abruptly canceled the study’s grant, citing that it was “subjective” and fell outside their scientific scope—an effect of the administration’s interpretation of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Research like PHRESH can help determine what changes in a neighborhood actually improve health, so cutting it has left that question unanswered. Other canceled studies have examined health issues like maternal health, preterm birth rates, or sickle cell disease. Courts have reversed some of these grant cancellations, but not all of them. If we really want America to be healthier, research into why some communities get sicker than others is absolutely critical. The law that created the federal minority health research institute passed with bipartisan support in 2000. But these days, as evidenced by grant cancellations, the political shift in attitudes toward DEI means we often lose access to the health information we need to help all communities thrive. DEI vs. health equity vs. equality and the overlap (or lack thereof) The letters “DEI” evoke very different reactions depending on who you are in the U.S. DEI programs can address gender, disability, age, and other factors, but the fiercest debate centers on race. For some people, hearing DEI brings to mind policies that may have cost them a job or a college seat because they are white. Others see DEI as a matter of justice: a way to expand representation and opportunity for groups that have been historically marginalized. Both perspectives are rooted in lived experience, and both center on the same question: whether hiring and admissions practices are fair. Hiring and admission practices, though related, are not the same as health equity. Health equity is “the attainment of the highest level of health for all people.” It’s the recognition that some groups of people consistently experience worse health outcomes than others. For instance, black mothers die from pregnancy-related complications at three times the rate of white mothers, and rural Americans are more likely to die from issues such as heart disease and cancer. Equity is also often conflated with “equality,” which leads to misunderstanding of how to actually best support communities. Equality ignores the fact that we aren’t all starting life with the same resources or circumstances, whereas equity is about helping people get what they specifically need based on their situation so they have the chance to achieve the same outcome as anyone else. For example, if every household in Pittsburgh got a $30 grocery gift card, that would be equal. But during the decades the Hill District went without a grocery store, that card wouldn’t have helped much. Equity means making sure everyone can actually access a store in the first place. DEI policies can overlap with health equity in many ways. For example, they may help expand access to quality education and stable, well-paying jobs, which in turn can provide health insurance, safer housing, and improved finances—all of which can reduce health disparities. But to make that happen, we first need data to identify disparities in communities and to develop solutions that effectively address them. What we lose when the research stops Community data is important to health equity because: You can’t fix what you don’t see: Data show which communities are most affected by health factors such as infection, heart disease, and cancer. If we don’t know what is happening and where, then we can’t develop interventions to help. Poor health costs everyone: Chronic disease is expensive—both to the individual person and to the overall economy. Understanding what groups of people are most at risk allows us to develop interventions that can save everyone money. Disparities exist for many communities: Health equity includes disparities that exist due to a whole host of factors, such as family background, race and ethnicity, rural vs. suburban residence, gender and sexual orientation, veteran status, disability, and lower income. This means many Americans can benefit from research into differences in health outcomes and how to improve them. Trust is easy to lose: Some participants in the PHRESH study were initially vocal about their concerns about participating. But that trust was earned because the researchers kept their promises and centered their work on the community. When projects are canceled mid-cycle, researchers have no choice but to leave behind communities they had promised to help. This hurts trust in the long run. It’s also a very inefficient use of resources, and it will take significant time and effort to redo the work when the government realizes this work is important again. How should we talk about health equity? This is hard because the words “equity” and “DEI” are currently very politically charged. So whether you’re a public health professional, teacher, or friend, how we talk about this topic matters. The right framing can help people who might otherwise be skeptical see why health equity research is important and deserves funding. Here are some suggestions to help your conversations: Choose your words strategically: Who are you trying to reach with your message? Are they likely to be resistant to terms like “diversity” and “equity”? If so, find alternative words to use to still get the message across. It is frustrating to be in that position, but the goal of improving health is too important not to try to make inroads. Sometimes simply reframing can help the message reach those who need to hear it. Focus on the problem: The terms “health equity” and “DEI” are abstract. Make it more specific. For example, discuss differences in maternal death or ways to improve health outcomes in rural communities. These still have equity at their core but will likely be better understood by those you’re talking with. Focus on systems: Disparities exist, but if they are communicated poorly, people can mistakenly think the issue is the individual’s fault. Disparities are largely driven by failures of the system—such as lack of access to health care and a long legacy of racism. When discussing the disparities, frame them around these systemic issues to ensure blame isn’t placed on the individuals impacted. Tell stories: Personalize these policies by using stories from those impacted that connect to the data you’re trying to convey. This helps make the policies and outcomes more concrete and meaningful. Bottom line Some communities end up sicker than others. That’s just the facts. We can argue about the best way to do that research, but canceling it simply because it may be linked to DEI doesn’t make anyone healthier. It just leaves communities like the Hill district behind. And in the end, it causes us all to move backward in our efforts to improve health in this country. Love, EM Big thanks to MacKenzie Isaac & Legairre Radden, who reviewed this piece and generously shared their expertise and lived experience to help improve it. Dr. Liz Marnik, PhD, is Executive Director of The Evidence Collective and a science communicator and immunologist working at the intersection of public trust, science, and public health. To discuss communication training on topics like health equity and storytelling, email Liz at liz@yle.health or learn more on our website. Your Local Epidemiologist (YLE) comprises a team of experts, ranging from physicians to immunologists to epidemiologists to nutritionists, working together with one goal: to “translate” ever-evolving public health science so that people are well-equipped to make evidence-based decisions. The YLE suite of newsletters reaches over 475,000 people across more than 132 countries. This newsletter is free to everyone, thanks to the generous support of fellow YLE community members. To support the effort, subscribe or upgrade below: Your Local Epidemiologist is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe
Sharks betting on Celebrini as franchise, business boom
San Jose Sharks F Macklin Celebrini is the new face of the NHL and has been named the team’s captain, leaving some waiting to see what he does to follow up on last year’s incredible season.
From Ed Sheeran to the NFL, Gaza Debate Reaches Sports and Entertainment
From Macklemore to Azeez Al-Shaair, Gaza activism is reshaping sports and entertainment worldwide.
Mack Hollins leads Patriots in Week 3 with six grabs
Mack Hollins finishes with six catches for 87 yards in Week 3 against Jacksonville.
Rangers vs. Twins Preview: Season on the Line
Texas Rangers' MacKenzie Gore takes the mound in a high-stakes finale, needing a victory and help from the Houston Astros to secure a postseason berth.
Where to watch Wisconsin volleyball vs. Purdue: TV channel, time
The No. 6 Wisconsin Badgers volleyball team hits the road Sunday for their Big Ten road match of the season, taking on No. 10 Purdue at Mackey Arena.
I read MacKenzie Scott's post-divorce, dystopian novel. It's baffling.
MacKenzie Scott self-published her novel 'Last Days in Two Nations' on Substack. It's her first novel since divorcing Jeff Bezos, and it's baffling.
SCOTUS smacks down Missouri's MAGA map
In a final ruling, the Supreme Court has blocked Missouri Republicans' gerrymander.
Ed Sheeran shows at Robert Kraft’s stadium canceled due to bad weather
Ed Sheeran’s other opening acts also departed the tour in solidarity with Macklemore
Macklemore announces new Free Palestine tour, after Ed Sheeran tour dismissal
LOS ANGELES — Macklemore remains firm in his commitment to the Palestinian cause amid Israel's deadly war in Gaza. The "Same Love" and "Hind's Hall" artist, after a recent $1
Macklemore sets Free Palestine tour after firing from Ed Sheeran tour
Macklemore reveals his Free Palestine tour, a week after he was dismissed from Ed Sheeran's tour. The tour currently consists of three stops in Europe but will later include U.S. shows, he said.
Macklemore announces 'Free Palestine' tour after Ed Sheeran controversy
Macklemore performs at Rod Laver Arena on May 15, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)
Macklemore announces ‘Free Palestine’ Tour
SEATTLE — With his schedule suddenly “freed up a bit,” Macklemore is going back out on the road. Less than two weeks after being kicked off Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour
Reedijk a bold and exciting roll of the dice
With no senior playing career to speak of and a coaching background that 'only' goes as high as the Belgian second tier, it would have been easy for Malky Mackay and Ian Gordon to overlook Reedijk. Winning promotion with an unbeaten campaign last season at Beveren will have caught their eye and when his name appeared in speculation linking him to the job, my own curiosity got the better of me and I did some digging into his background.
Macklemore announces concerts benefiting Palestinian aid organizations
Macklemore has announced a series of live performances called “Free Palestine,” with all proceeds going to Palestinian aid organizations | WBBM Newsradio 780 AM & 105.9 FM
Macklemore announces concerts benefiting Palestinian aid organizations
Macklemore has announced a series of live performances called “Free Palestine,” with all proceeds going to Palestinian aid organizations | NewsRadio 1080 KRLD
Macklemore announces concerts benefiting Palestinian aid organizations
Macklemore has announced a series of live performances called “Free Palestine,” with all proceeds going to Palestinian aid organizations. The tour kicks off in Europe next month, starting in Dublin
Jim ‘Bones’ Mackay Reveals High Cost of Being a Caddie
Mackay was Phil Mickelson’s longtime caddie.
‘Seen and Unseen’: Ed Sheeran poured on the emotion and gave in to politics
Fox News contributor Raymond Arroyo discusses a fight that broke out on a flight to London and the controversy surrounding Ed Sheeran after Macklemore was dropped from his tour on ‘The Ingraham Angle.’
Gore announced as Tuesday starter against Mets
MacKenzie Gore will start the series opener on Tuesday against the Mets
Opinion | Ed Sheeran, Macklemore and Why Politics Is So Hard for Celebrities
Celebrities use the facade of neutrality as shelter, as a place to take refuge.
Whether you like it or not, celebrities have an impact on politics
The global groundswell of support for Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian advocacy serves to remind us that maybe celebrity activism really is that deep after all, writes Cheek’s Varsha Yajman. Subscribe In the last week, publications, podcasts, and influencers that have either rarely or never spoken about Israel’s genocide in Palestine have flooded my social feed. And it was all because singer Ed Sheeran and his team dropped Macklemore as his opener for saying “Free Palestine” on stage. Millions raised, millions speaking up in support of Palestine - all of this confirming my view that, whether I like it or not, celebrities do have an impact on political outcomes. And this is interesting when much of the time celebrity activism can induce an eye roll - I love to see Charli XCX pointing out a Palestinian flag in the crowd, but it’s hardly the bold symbol of allyship that some fans would make it out to be. But there’s a line between healthy scepticism and outright dismissal - and I’d argue that the latter lets the rich and powerful off far too easily. For instance, actress Jennifer Lawrence, once outspoken about her political views, last year told The Times she no longer believes celebrities have a role to play: “Celebrities do not make a difference whatsoever on who people vote for. So then what am I doing? I’m just sharing my opinion on something that’s going to add fuel to a fire that’s ripping the country apart.” While it’s a narrative she might find comfort in, it simply is not true. Grassroots movements often garner worldwide attention when celebrities and other high-profile spokespeople bring a mainstream platform to their causes. And this frustrates me. We have had three years of a live-streamed genocide. Macklemore himself has been calling for a Free Palestine long before he booked the Sheeran concert. Yet it’s the high-profile fallout of the last week that finally seems to have made saying “Free Palestine” socially acceptable in the mainstream. It feels like the collective mood has shifted, where calling out censorship is now the obvious response - not just the business of ‘radical’ activists. To recap, Sheeran’s decision followed an ultimatum from billionaire Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, one of the venues Sheeran was scheduled to perform at: either drop Macklemore as your opener after only two of the eight scheduled shows, or you do not play at any stadiums. Sheeran’s disappointing decision to stand on the side of billionaire-led censorship has ultimately seen a surge in support for Free Palestine. It began when all his openers and his backing band pulled out of Sheeran’s tour, in solidarity with Macklemore and with the Palestinian cause. It was met with an uproar of support from those who had never or barely touched politics before: influencers lip-syncing to Macklemore’s music, singers like Jack Antonoff singing “Free Palestine,” and publications and podcasts standing with Macklemore. And finally, we saw material support: Macklemore donated $1 million in profits from his two nights opening for Sheeran’s tour to several Palestinian aid groups and called for Sheeran and Kraft to match it, which they have since promised to do. We’ve also seen children’s entertainer Ms Rachel follow suit with a $1 million donation to Palestinian aid, and publication PopBase has donated $10,000. Anera, a humanitarian aid group working in Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan, said donations since Macklemore’s announcement were more than triple this month’s daily average. The group’s Instagram page has also gained 8,000 followers. Macklemore far from the first celebrity to speak and participate in politics in the Western World. In 1924, singer Al Jolson supported Republican candidate Warren G. Harding for president, and decades later, celebrities such as Harry Belafonte, Lena Horne, and Aretha Franklin voiced their public support for the Civil Rights movement. More recently, in the lead-up to the 2024 US election, ‘The Daily Show with Trevor Noah partnered with the organisation Power the Polls to recruit poll workers to address shortages- a problem disproportionately affecting voters of colour. The campaign saw 170,000 new sign-ups - 35,000 of which came directly through the TV show’s link - resulting in the recruitment of 713,000 total poll workers that year, an almost three-fold increase on the organisation’s goal. Alongside recruiting workers, celebrities in the US (where voting in elections is not compulsory) have made a huge difference by calling for people to register to vote. Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris in 2024 saw over 400,000 visitors on the voter registration site within 24 hours of her Instagram post. In 2023, Swift had urged her fans to register, resulting in 35,000 new voter registrations. Similarly, Ariana Grande promoted voter registration in 2019 by setting up booths at concerts on the American leg of her tour, resulting in over 33,000 voters registering. And the same thing is happening closer to home. This year, musician Jack River successfully called for government action to ensure creatives in Australia do not have their work scraped by generative AI companies. Celebrity as the mediator between the punter and the politician Celebrity activism isn’t just a feel-good news story - research tells us it actually makes a difference. By directing attention to issues affecting the average person, like voting inaccessibility or a lack of action on a genocide, researchers Alfred Archer and Amanda Cawston state that “celebrities can play a useful bridging role between political elites and the people they represent”. Alternatively, in a world where talking about politics is “not cool,” or where people lack exposure or knowledge to engage with politics, celebrities can act as an educational resource or an entry point into the political world - when they speak up about an issue, their audience gets exposed to it. Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival is a perfect example. Rodrigo partnered with twelve organisations focused on women’s issues, such as reproductive rights. These organisations had stalls at the festival for people to meet them and were also featured heavily on social media, giving their issues global attention and raising $20 million for the organisations. We have also seen celebrities at award shows such as the Emmys wearing F*CK ICE pins, referring to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s treatment and detainment of people - generally people of colour. When celebrities speak up about political issues in public forums, they put the issue at the forefront of mainstream media, rally their supporters, and make it clear that, however much they disagree, the government cannot simply ignore it. Our over-reliance on celebrities versus our politicians As much as I love seeing my favourite celebrity use their platform for a good cause, there is an important question to ask: not whether celebrity activism is good or bad, but whether we should have to rely on celebrities. And the answer would, in an ideal world, be no. In an ideal world, or merely a just world, action on Palestine would’ve happened decades ago, climate change would be taken seriously, and most importantly, people would understand their democratic rights. However, that is not our reality. Only around 28 per cent of Australian Year 10 students reach proficiency in civics and citizenship. In the US, almost two-thirds of people under 30 say high school civics education didn’t prepare them to understand voting deadlines, how to research candidates, or how to vote by mail. When civics education is weak, our trust in these institutions and our understanding of change-making processes also decline. This is where celebrity steps in and becomes our main source of reliance. As Mary R. Connelly notes in _The Tartan, “_Celebrities will always be involved in campaigns in one form or another, but their presence is not what causes people to vote blindly. The lack of political engagement and literacy is what allows celebrities to wield their influence on the political sphere so impactfully.” About the author Varsha Yajman is the Digital Content Producer at Cheek Media. She is a youth advocate and lawyer with a background in climate litigation and is passionate about looking at the intersection between race, climate justice, and mental health. Thanks for reading Cheek Media Co. ! This post is public so feel free to share it. Share
Braves clinch division title as Red Sox reach MLB playoffs
Mike Yastrzemski smacked a game-winning three-run homer to lead Atlanta over Houston 4-2 on Sunday as the Braves clinched their seventh Major League Baseball division title in nine seasons.
Robert Kraft set a ‘powerful example’ with Macklemore ban, political analyst says
‘Fox News Sunday’ panelists discuss the Michigan U.S. Senate race, the controversy involving Ed Sheeran and Macklemore and the future of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Gary Peters, Michigan's senior U.S. senator, prepares to leave office
U.S. Gary Peters, D-Bloomfield Township, is leaving office at the end of 2026 after 12 years in the Senate.
Finneas Drops Out of Ed Sheeran Tour After Macklemore Was Removed
Finneas was set to perform as a supporting act for select dates of Ed Sheeran's tour later this year.
Ed Sheeran's Cousin Slams Singer, Calls Him a 'Coward' Amid Controversy
Ed Sheeran's cousin is publicly condemning his famous family member amid the controversy surrounding the decision to unceremoniously remove Macklemore from the singer's Loop Tour for his unapologetic support of the Palestinian people.
Ed Sheeran's Cousin Slams Singer, Calls Him a 'Coward' Amid Controversy
Ed Sheeran's cousin is publicly condemning his famous family member amid the controversy surrounding the decision to unceremoniously remove Macklemore from the singer's Loop Tour for his unapologetic support of the Palestinian people.
Which side Is Ed Sheeran on?
He addressed the Kraft-Macklemore uproar at a show last night—but some topics have no safe middle ground.
Ms. Rachel Says Ed Sheeran Caved Over Macklemore Exit
The children's educator says Sheeran failed a moral test after venues reportedly threatened to block Loop Tour dates featuring Macklemore.
Ed Sheeran addresses Gaza and Macklemore controversy at Philly tour stop
At his first concert since controversy roiled his North American tour, Ed Sheeran said he is "deeply...
Ed Sheeran addresses Gaza and Macklemore controversy at Philly tour stop
At his first concert since controversy roiled his North American tour, Ed Sheeran said he is “deeply worried” by venues influencing performances after opener Macklemore was fired from the concert
Inside the Fear, Anger, and Hope at Ed Sheeran’s Philadelphia Concert
The latest Loop tour stop drew heightened attention after a week’s worth of statements and fallout following Macklemore's removal from the tour
Ed Sheeran weeps onstage, admits to ‘making mistakes’ in first concert since Macklemore exit: ‘I’m so sorry’
The singer has been embroiled in controversy since Macklemore was removed for making pro-Palestine statements onstage.
'I'm so, so sorry': Ed Sheeran speaks out at his first show after Macklemore controversy
Before performing in Philadelphia on Sept. 19, Ed Sheeran addressed the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal from the U.S. dates of his Loop Tour following pro-Palestinian remarks made onstage.
Jerry Mack recaps Kennesaw State's performance at Tennessee
Jerry Mack returns to Tennessee and recaps Kennesaw State's performance in Week 3.
Ed Sheeran Clarifies Gaza Stance, Again Blames Venues for Kicking Macklemore Off Tour
Sheeran called what’s happening in Gaza “catastrophic, unjustifiable, and disproportionate” but did not take responsibility for the rapper being removed from the show
Ed Sheeran apologizes for ‘mistakes’ in first show since Macklemore was removed from tour, other openers quit
Ed Sheeran opened his Philadelphia concert with a direct apology to fans — and addressed the Israel-Hamas war — after Macklemore was dropped from his U.S. tour.
Ed Sheeran Found New Band to ‘Stand on Stage With Me' After Controversy
Ed Sheeran performed with a new backing band during his Saturday, September 19, concert after his previous team left the Loop Tour in solidarity with Macklemore's controversial departure.
She was ready to save her sister by donating her kidney. Then the doctor said she wasn’t “healthy enough”
Coming from a family with two sickly sisters, MacKenzie Dias (@mackattackd) was ready to donate her kidney to one of them. But when her doctor assessed her, Dias wasn’t fit to become an organ donor. “...
Ed Sheeran Makes Huge Change to 'Loop Tour' Amid Macklemore Controversy
Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour looked very different from what fans may have expected when the singer-songwriter took to the stage in Philadelphia.
Ed Sheeran weeps on stage, says Israel's actions in Gaza 'unjustifiable' in emotional first speech since Macklemore fiasco
Pro-Palestinian protesters target Ed Sheeran’s Philadelphia concert after Macklemore removed from tour
Pro-Palestinian protesters waved flags and chanted outside Ed Sheeran's Philadelphia concert, one week after Macklemore was dropped from the tour.
Ed Sheeran's Tour Ticket Prices Drop, More Seats Available Amid Controversy
Shortly after Macklemore was dropped from Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour concert for his unapologetic support of Palestine, ticket prices for the singer's upcoming Philadelphia show have dropped by at least 50 percent.
Ed Sheeran's PA Concert Undergoes Major Change Amid Macklemore Controversy
Ed Sheeran's Saturday, September 19, Loop Tour concert in Philadelphia will feature a major change as the singer continues to face backlash.
Patriots underrated WR viewed as Week 2 fantasy football sleeper
Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins could be in line for a large workload in Week 2 with A.J. Brown sidelined.
For Palestinian aid groups, Macklemore’s $1M pledge brings relief and attention to ongoing suffering
Macklemore's $1 million donation pledge is coming at a critical time for Palestinian relief nonprofits.