SXSW Responds To Texas Governor’s “Don’t Come Back” Comment After Musicians Drop Out Of Fest Protesting Military Ties
deadline.comTexas Gov. Greg Abbott and SXSW on Tuesday traded jabs on social media in response to a group of as many as 60 bands who have pulled out of Austin-based festival to protest its sponsor ties to the U.S.
Army, as well as its inclusion of defense contractors taking part in some of the fest’s conference programs. “Bye. Don’t come back,” Abbott wrote on his personal Twitter (X) feed today as news of the pullouts spread. “Austin remains the HQ for the Army Futures Command.
San Antonio is Military City USA. We are proud of the U.S. military in Texas. If you don’t like it, don’t come here.” On its own social media accounts, SXSW responded to Abbott, saying “SXSW does not agree with Governor Abbott,” adding that the organization “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.” (See the full fest statement below.) At the heart of the band boycott is the inclusion of the U.S.
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