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SXSW became embroiled in controversy last week after indie artists Told Slant announced they were canceling their SXSW performance due to controversial contract language that suggested appeared to threaten international acts with possible deportation if they perform at concerts that aren't part of the official schedule for the festival, or otherwise act in a way that is detrimental to the artist's official showcase
On Tuesday, SXSW announced that they were amending their contracts to "remove the option of notifying immigration authorities in situations where a foreign artist might 'adversely affect the viability of [the] artist’s official showcase,'" such as playing unofficial shows during the festival.SXSW organizers went on to affirm that they only cooperate with immigrations officials when required to by law."We would like to again apologize for the language in our agreements. We care deeply about the community we serve, and our event is a welcome and safe space for all people," the statement said. The full statement:SXSW STATEMENT REGARDING COMMITMENT TO OUR INTERNATIONAL ARTISTSMarch 7, 2017With the announcement of President Trump’s latest Travel Ban, SXSW would like to reaffirm its public opposition to these executive orders and provide ongoing support to the artists traveling from foreign countries to our event.To reinforce that stance, we would like to address the concerns regarding the language in our artist invitation letter and performance agreement for the SXSW Music Festival.SXSW will do the following:In this political climate, especially as it relates to immigration, we recognize the heightened importance of standing together against injustice.While SXSW works to be in compliance with U.S. immigration law, it is important to know that:We would like to again apologize for the language in our agreements. We care deeply about the community we serve, and our event is a welcome and safe space for all people.via Celebrity AccessRelated articles
