SXSW will drop its US army sponsorship for 2025

In the lead up to the 2024 festival, multiple musicians have pulled out of SXSW events and showcases in protest of its connections to the US Army and defence contractors. KNEECAP, Scowl, bar italia, Cumgirl8, VLURE, Squirrel Flower, Rachel Chinouriri, GEL, Mamalarky, and Lambrini Girls were among many artists who have decide to pull their showcases at SXSW. Some decided to play unofficial showcases in Austin, Texas, whilst others decided to boycott the event completely.

At the time, SXSW said that they "fully respect the decision these artists made", and clearing up their ties with the US Army. "We are an organization that welcomes diverse viewpoints. Music is the soul of SXSW, and it has long been our legacy. We fully respect the decision these artists made to exercise their right to free speech," their statement began." Now, they've revealed that they will not be using the same sponsors for next year's event.

https://www.thelineofbestfit.com/news/sxsw-will-drop-its-us-army-sponsorship-for-2025