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Several Performers Withdraw From Freedom 250 Concerts in Washington
Multiple entertainers canceled appearances at a series of concerts planned for the National Mall after learning details about the events. The concerts are scheduled for late June and early July.
May 29, 6:00 PM·1m read1 source
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Several performers withdrew from concerts organized by Freedom 250 after the group announced its first wave of acts this week. D.C. Freedom 250 describes itself as a national, non-partisan organization leading the celebration of the nation's 250th birthday. President Donald Trump launched the group late last year and selected former State Department official Keith Krach to serve as its CEO.
McBride posted on social media that she initially agreed to participate because she believed the event would remain politically neutral. "Yesterday things started changing and what we were told is, in fact, not what is happening," she wrote Thursday.
Young MC posted on Instagram that the artists were never told about any political involvement with the event. He added that he hoped to perform in Washington in the near future at an event that is not so politically charged. Morris Day posted a brief statement on Instagram saying that Morris Day & The Time will not be performing at the Great American State Fair.
C&C Music Factory issued a statement distancing itself from the event, saying it stands for love of all people and races globally and neutrality in all beliefs. The original vocalists of Milli Vanilli also said they will not perform at the event and noted that others using the name Milli Vanilli should be considered a tribute band.
Vanilla Ice remains scheduled to appear. A representative for the rapper said he is proud to help celebrate America's 250th anniversary and that everyone is welcome to attend.
