Freemuse Defending Artistic Freedom
Rappers Odd Future from Los Angeles have been banned from entering New Zealand after officials decided they pose a threat to public order.
In an official statement, Immigration New Zealand explained that the rappers had been “deemed to be a potential threat to public order and the public interest for several reasons, including incidents at past performances in which they have incited violence.”
In 2011, it was reported that Odd Future were taken off the bill for Big Day Out festival in Auckland. According to the Herald, Auckland City Council objected to the group’s lyrical content, which they viewed as misogynistic and homophobic.
In 2013, New Zealand officials banned musician David Rovics, citing his blog posts on drug-taking.
The Guardian / AP – 13 February 2014:
Odd Future banned from entering New Zealand
Collective will not perform at rap festival Rapture after being deemed a potential threat to public order for past incidents and performances in which officials claim they incited violence
