Let us start here:
and then remind ourselves that those who do not stand against genocide in their words and actions are complicit.
This applies to ALL of the representatives for the Eurovision Song Contest. If Israel is taking part, the rest should either not turn up or should walk off the stage seconds into their performance. Tens of thousands are dying, and this symbolism would be profound.
The UK representative, Olly Alexander, has had to come out and address what he calls the “extreme” remarks from fans concerning Israel’s participation in the competition. Every contestant should be under pressure to do the same.
Olly Alexander was chosen as this year’s representative for the UK in the popular singing competition, scheduled to be held in Malmo, Sweden, next week. However, tens of thousands are expected to protest Israel’s involvement and its ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Alexander, the singer from Years & Years, has come under criticism from some quarters, with calls for him to withdraw from the event amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Queers for Palestine circulated a letter, signed by thousands, including actors Indya Moore, Brigette Lundy-Paine, and Maxine Peake, urging the *It’s A Sin actor to pull out of the show.
In March, Alexander, along with Irish contestant Bambie Thug, Danish entrant Saba, and other Eurovision artists, released a joint statement supporting “an immediate and lasting ceasefire” but refusing to boycott the event.
In a new documentary tracking the 33-year-old’s journey as he prepares for the show, Alexander described some of the comments he and fellow participants have received as “very extreme.”. He remarked, “Many of the contestants and I have been subjected to comments such as ‘You are complicit in a genocide by participating in Eurovision,’ which is quite extreme. I understand the sentiment behind it, but I believe it’s not accurate. It’s an incredibly complex political situation, one that I’m not qualified to address. The backdrop to this is actual, immense suffering. It’s a humanitarian crisis, a war. It just so happens that there’s a song contest taking place at the same time that I’m involved in.”
Speaking in the BBC’s documentary titled “Olly Alexander’s Road to Eurovision ’24,” he continued by stating that people should boycott Eurovision if they felt uncomfortable watching, and he respected their decision. However, he affirmed his intention to participate himself, saying, “My plan is to focus on delivering a good performance in Malmo. My team and everyone involved have worked tirelessly, and we’re now in the final stretch.”
Let us hope he and his fellow contestants come up with something much more morally imaginative on the night.
*The amazing ‘It’s A Sin‘
“It’s a Sin” is a poignant and powerful television drama that delves into the lives of a group of friends living in London during the 1980s, amidst the HIV/AIDS crisis. Created by Russell T. Davies, the series explores themes of love, friendship, sexuality, and discrimination, while also shedding light on the devastating impact of the AIDS epidemic on the LGBTQ+ community.
Set against the backdrop of the vibrant and liberated queer scene of the 1980s, “It’s a Sin” follows the journey of a group of young gay men: Ritchie, Roscoe, Colin, Ash, and Jill. As they navigate the challenges of coming out, forging relationships, and pursuing their dreams, their lives are irrevocably altered by the emergence of AIDS.
At the heart of the series lies the character of Ritchie Tozer, portrayed with depth and nuance by Olly Alexander. Ritchie is a charismatic and aspiring actor who moves to London from the Isle of Wight to pursue his dreams. However, his journey is soon overshadowed by the looming threat of AIDS, which ravages the community with devastating consequences.
Through Ritchie’s story, “It’s a Sin” explores the stigma and discrimination faced by those living with HIV/AIDS during the 1980s. The series exposes the ignorance, fear, and prejudice that surrounded the epidemic, as well as the failures of the government and healthcare system to respond effectively.
Jill Baxter, played by Lydia West, emerges as a central figure in the lives of the characters, providing unwavering support and compassion in the face of adversity. Her character embodies resilience and solidarity, offering a beacon of hope in the darkest of times.
“It’s a Sin” also highlights the importance of a chosen family and community in times of crisis. Despite the challenges they face, the characters find solace and strength in their friendships and shared experiences. Their bond becomes a source of comfort and solidarity as they confront the harsh realities of AIDS together.
The series is not only a poignant portrayal of the AIDS epidemic but also a celebration of queer resilience and defiance. It pays homage to those who fought for recognition, acceptance, and equality in the face of prejudice and discrimination.
“It’s a Sin” is a profoundly moving and emotionally resonant drama that shines a light on a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. Through its compelling storytelling and powerful performances, it honours the lives lost to AIDS while also celebrating the resilience, courage, and love of the queer community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and solidarity in the face of adversity, and a testament to the enduring power of love in the midst of tragedy.
Please, for the sake of decency, do not let the millions suffering down, for a music show that has no value.
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