In a notable act of solidarity for free speech, celebrated singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan announced that she and other scheduled performers would not take the stage at the premiere of the documentary Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery, which took place on September 21. This event highlighted the growing backlash against Disney’s recent decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel Live!. McLachlan expressed her concerns regarding the ongoing erosion of women's rights and trans and queer rights in her statement at the premiere.
The documentary, which chronicles McLachlan's groundbreaking all-female music festival launched in 1997, aired on Hulu, a platform owned by Disney. Although McLachlan did not explicitly mention Kimmel or the suspension, her comments resonated with the current climate surrounding free speech. "I know you’re expecting a performance tonight, and I’m so grateful to all of you for coming, and I apologize if this is disappointing," she mentioned, referring to her decision to abstain from performing along with fellow artist Jewel. "But we have collectively decided not to perform but instead to stand in solidarity in support of free speech."
The fallout from Kimmel’s suspension has sparked significant public controversy, drawing attention from various celebrities and advocates for freedom of expression. Following Kimmel's monologue, which criticized political narratives surrounding the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Disney's decision to suspend the show indefinitely has been perceived as a capitulation to political pressure, particularly from the Trump administration. This has incited calls for boycotts of Disney's amusement parks, streaming services, and other related ventures.
During her speech, McLachlan emphasized the importance of unity and resilience in the face of adversity. "If Lilith taught me anything, it taught me there is a great strength in coming together to lift each other up instead of tearing each other down," she remarked. She encouraged everyone to continue advocating for positive change in their communities with kindness and empathy. "Ultimately, we’re all in this together," she concluded, hoping that her documentary would inspire others to champion the causes they believe in.
Amid the ongoing backlash against Disney, other artists have also voiced their support for Kimmel and free speech. Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo, who features in the Lilith Fair documentary, took to social media to express her frustration, stating she was "so upset over this blatant censorship and abuse of power." Rodrigo reaffirmed her support for Kimmel, emphasizing the need to stand up for freedom of speech in the current political landscape.
As the situation continues to evolve, the actions taken by McLachlan and others serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for free expression and the importance of artistic integrity in today's society.
