BDS Greece’s statement in detail:
“On New Year’s Eve, a day symbolising hope and renewal, the Peace and Friendship Stadium will host a concert that represents the opposite: Vini Vici and Astral Projection, two bands from the Israeli psytrance scene, who have publicly supported the Israeli state and its military amidst the genocide in Gaza.
The boycott of this concert is an act of solidarity with the Palestinian people, facing annihilation, and a rejection of normalising oppression and violence through art.
Artists accused of complicity in Israeli military actions
Astral Projection has been directly involved in supporting the Israeli army (IDF), performing at an IDF event on November 23, 2023, while the military was conducting operations in Gaza described as genocidal by the UN. In January 2024, they expressed public support for an injured IDF soldier during the ongoing crisis.
Vini Vici has also faced international backlash. A December 2024 concert in Mauritius was cancelled due to public outcry, as the band was deemed complicit in Israel’s actions in Gaza.
“Artwashing” and cultural propaganda
BDS Greece accuses Israel of using art and music as tools of propaganda, or “artwashing,” to deflect attention from war crimes and oppression. Artists like Vini Vici and Astral Projection are seen as contributors to this strategy, promoting the Israeli state’s narrative through their global presence.
Astral Projection has described themselves as “cultural representatives of Israel,” carrying its flag proudly in international appearances even as reports of atrocities in Gaza mount.
BDS Greece’s demands:
- From organisers and venue hosts: Cancel the concert unless the artists publicly distance themselves from the Israeli state and its military.
- From the artists: Condemn Israeli apartheid and the crimes against Palestinians, and recognise Palestinian rights.
- From the audience: Boycott the concert and spread awareness of the artists’ actions.
Guidelines from PACBI
The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI) outlines criteria for boycotting cultural figures who fail to condemn apartheid and the occupation or support Palestinian rights. According to BDS Greece, Vini Vici and Astral Projection not only fall short of these standards but actively promote Israeli policies through their art.
“Art must inspire justice”
BDS Greece stresses that music and art should foster peace and justice, not shield crimes against humanity. The boycott is framed as a rejection of complicity in violence and a show of solidarity with Palestinians.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, BDS Greece calls on all parties to make a stand for justice, equality, and a free Palestine.
______________________________________________
Are you seeking news from Greece presented from a progressive, non-mainstream perspective? Subscribe monthly or annually to support TPP International in delivering independent reporting in English. Don’t let Greek progressive voices fade.
Make sure to reference “TPP International” and your order number as the reason for payment.