Kneecap, a well-known rap collective from Belfast, is currently banned from entering Canada. Officials have charged them with supporting terrorist groups. This ban is an unexpected and drastic measure against a group that has previously toured Canada without issues. Naoise Ó Cairealláin, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh are better known for their incendiary lyrics and controversial t-shirts. Yet they fervently support pro-Palestinian efforts.
The Canadian government took their decision following a number of high-profile incidents with Kneecap. These events have garnered a ton of national media attention this year. During a performance at London’s Wembley Arena, the group addressed Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK and displayed a message on the wall that read: “Starmer welcomed Isaac Herzog to this city like a king last week.” This incident is just one illustration of their readiness to embrace political themes in their music.
Vince Gasparro, a Canadian government representative, said he was troubled to the point of alarm by Kneecap’s recent actions and statements. He concluded by noting that such actions go against Canadian values and laws. He emphasized that the group’s expressions are not viewed as legitimate political critique but as “dangerous endorsements of violence and hate.”
“Recently, the rap group Kneecap has engaged in actions and have made statements that are contrary to Canadian values and laws that have caused deep alarm to our government.” – Vince Gasparro
Despite the accusation Kneecap has defended this assertion adamantly. Further, the assembly asserted that none of its members have ever been found guilty of any offense in any nation. In response, they denied these allegations, calling them “absolutely false and completely wrong and evil.” In retaliation to the ban, Adele and Khaela have told their lawyers to file suit against Gasparro.
“Your comments about us are wholly untrue and deeply malicious. We will not accept it.” – Kneecap
Kneecap further underscored their legacy of playing in Canada, bringing messages of solidarity and love with them each time they crossed the border. Even if none of that were true, the depth of the group’s commitment to their cause would be enough. If successful in court, they intend to donate any case winnings toward treating child amputees in Gaza.
“We have played in Canada many times with zero issues and a message of solidarity and love.” – Kneecap
Considering that Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, one of the group’s members, is right now awaiting terrorism-related charges in the United Kingdom, this may not be surprising. He is set to reappear at Westminster Magistrates Court on September 26. This development compounds the already daunting complexity of Kneecap’s legal fight, as they still must respond to the Canadian government’s accusations.