EntertainmentSXSW comments on support from the Army and cancellation of bands at the eventBands such as NewDad, Cardinals, Enola Gay and Soda Blonde canceled their participation in the festival; the governor of Texas fired back today at 2:59 p.m.

Greg Abbottcurrent governor of Texas, in the United States, reacted to the cancellation of bands in SXSW. Groups like NewDad, Cardinals, Enola Gay It is Soda Blonde They withdrew from participating in the event after receiving news that the festival receives support from the United States Army. Abbott wrote on Twitter:

Bands leave SXSW because of sponsorship from the United States Army.
Goodbye. Don’t come back.
Austin remains the headquarters of Army Futures Command.
San Antonio is the military city of the USA.
We are proud of the U.S. military in Texas.
If you don’t like it, don’t come here.

Bands pull out of SXSW over US Army sponsorship.

Bye. Don’t come back.

Austin remains the HQ for the Army Futures Command.

San Antonio is Military City USA.

We are proud of the US military in Texas.

If you don’t like it, don’t come here.
https://t.co/t3RyQgLRKN

— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) March 12, 2024

To alleviate the situation and maintain a good relationship with the artists, the SXSW also spoke on social media:

O SXSW does not agree with the governor Abbott.
We are an organization that welcomes diverse opinions. Music is the soul of SXSW, and it has long been our legacy. We fully respect the decision of these artists to exercise their right to freedom of expression.
Across the world, we are witnessing unspeakable tragedies, the rise of repressive regimes and the increasing spread of violent conflicts. It is more crucial than ever that we come together to solve these larger humanitarian issues.
The defense industry has historically been a testing ground for many of the systems we rely on today. These institutions are often leaders in emerging technologies, and we believe it is best to understand how their approach will impact our lives.
Army sponsorship is part of our commitment to advancing ideas that shape our world. Regarding Collins Aerospace, they participated this year as a two-category sponsor of the SXSW Pitch, providing visibility and funding for entrepreneurs who are potentially doing game-changing work.
We support and will continue to support human rights for all. The situation in the Middle East is tragic and highlights the heightened importance of uniting against injustice.

Cancellations

Read the statement from bands that canceled their participation in the SXSW: