A US rock band currently on tour in Australia has chosen to boycott Sunrise after learning about the racism concerns that surround the once popular morning television show.
In a statement posted to instagram last night, the rock band “Portugal. The Man“, made it clear that they hold a high level of respect towards Indigenous people as they come rural Alaska. They stated that Sunrise is a program that is currently amplifying problem between Indigenous and non Indigenous people in Australia.
The band also decided to open last nights Sydney performance with a welcome to country by Uncle Allen Madden. Their boycott came less than 12 hours before they were scheduled to perform live on Sunrise. The morning show is becoming quite familiar with these last minute changes. In March, Sunrise was able to completely hide a large scale protest that was happening directly outside their live studio in response to claims that “white” families should be taking care of neglected Aboriginal children.
Over the last few years, Sunrise has been embroiled in a number of racism controversies and over the last six months it appears to be on the increase with Indigenous news at the forefront of continued segments being aired over National Australian TV.
Their last segment which resulted in prolonged outrage and protests is currently under investigation by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.
Who will be the next celebrity to boycott Sunrise?
Catch them at one of their final shows of their Australian tour in Melbourne May 3, Bendigo May 5 and Townsville May 6. In case you haven’t heard of the band, here is one of their most famous songs.
