Drag Race UK’s Bimini Bon Boulash has said they “cannot in good conscience” perform at this year’s Manchester Pride Festival.
Bimini joins BollyWitch, Felix Mufti and Dan Chan in refusing to perform for reasons relative to the event’s headline sponsor, Booking.com, who has been accused of profiteering from the occupation of Palestine.
The current line-up for Manchester Pride 2024 now includes the Sugababes, Jessie J, Loreen, Rita Ora, Katy B, Keala Settle, and more. Bimini, who had a headline slot last year, wrote on Instagram that it was a “tough decision” not to be involved.
The drag artist cited Booking.com profiting from the occupation of Palestine in their decision after it was reported that the platform had listings in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
“After careful consideration, I’ve made the tough decision to withdraw from headlining the Friday night at Manchester Pride this year,” the ‘God Save This Queen‘ artist wrote.
“This choice is not taken lightly; I deeply value the Manchester community and the celebration of love and diversity that Pride represents. However, after learning of allegations against one of the event’s sponsors, Booking.com, I have decided I cannot in good conscience perform at this year’s event.
“Booking.com list vacation homes in disputed territories and has been blacklisted by the United Nations Human Rights Council as a company that has human rights violations concerns. As an artist and activist, I stand for justice and accountability.”
Manchester Pride has said it “respects and understands” the decision, adding that they would continue to “engage in meaningful dialogue” with Booking.com.
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