Jeremy Corbyn Speaks Out on Gaza Crisis at London’s Wide Awake Festival

Jeremy Corbyn calls for urgent support for Gaza at London’s Wide Awake Festival, highlighting music’s power and British military involvement.

Jeremy Corbyn’s Powerful Address at Wide Awake Festival

On May 23, 2025, Jeremy Corbyn took the main stage at London’s Wide Awake Festival in Brockwell Park to voice his support for people enduring a desperate situation in Gaza and the West Bank. The festival, a vibrant celebration of music and community, was headlined by the Irish rap trio Kneecap, and showcased performances by CMAT, English Teacher, Daniel Avery, Mannequin Pussy, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, and Nadine Shah — who Corbyn personally introduced.

Corbyn’s message was clear from the start: the focus was on solidarity with those suffering in Gaza, alongside a celebration of the unifying power of music. "We’re here today to get support for people in a desperate situation in Gaza and the West Bank," he told the enthusiastic crowd, who warmly cheered his words. "We’re here also to celebrate music, celebrate music venues, and celebrate the joy that music brings to millions."

A Call for Parliamentary Action and Awareness

The former Labour leader didn't stop at rallying the crowd — he also revealed that he had tabled a bill in Parliament demanding an inquiry into the British military’s role in Israeli operations in Gaza. He emphasized the heartbreaking reality of the situation: the blockade on aid and food, which he described as a deliberate starvation tactic against the people of Gaza.

I’m sorry to say, but for a very long time this country… has supplied weapons and supplied parts for the F-35 jets that are used to bomb Gaza.

— Jeremy Corbyn

Urging attendees to raise their voices in demonstrations supporting Palestinians, Corbyn made a strong link between political action and public awareness.

Protecting Music Venues and Supporting Creativity

Beyond the political, Corbyn passionately spoke about the importance of safeguarding music venues. He stressed that these spaces are crucial for nurturing the musicians of tomorrow.

If we don’t protect these venues, where are the musicians of tomorrow going to come from? he queried, before adding:

Music brings us together, allows us to understand each other, and gives young people the real opportunity to express their creativity and joy of life. So let’s defend festivals, defend music venues… learn music at school and enjoy what comes with it… music inspires people during adversity.

His heartfelt words reminded the audience that music is more than entertainment — it’s a vital form of expression and connection, especially in tough times.

Watch Jeremy Corbyn’s Full Speech

Catch a fan-captured video of Corbyn’s impactful speech at Wide Awake Festival below:

Corbyn’s speech just now to the Wide Awake Festival in south London pic.twitter.com/ooCG3x54nn

— Stephen Smith (@SteveNickSmith) May 23, 2025

The Festival’s Challenging Road and Political Undertones

Wide Awake Festival’s 2025 edition hasn’t been without controversy. Local resident Rebekah Shaman, part of the Protect Brockwell Park group, initiated legal action against Lambeth Council, claiming that the organizers lacked correct planning permission. A High Court judge ruled in her favor on May 16, which threatened the future of the festival and similar events at Brockwell Park.

The Night Time Industries Association warned that this could deal a “devastating blow” to London’s cultural scene. However, the organizers Brockwell Live reassured the public on May 19 that no events would be canceled despite the ruling. On the day of the festival, Wide Awake also announced a last-minute ticket price reduction to help offset rising legal costs.

Kneecap’s Controversy and New Politically Charged Release

Adding to the festival’s charged atmosphere, Irish rap group Kneecap, who headlined the event, faced scrutiny when member Mo Chara was charged with a terror offense on May 21. The band dismissed the charges as a “carnival of distraction.”

On the festival day, Kneecap released a new politically charged single titled “The Recap,” featuring drum and bass artist Mozey. The track opens with a “breaking news” bulletin about the police investigation into the band and tackles Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch’s political maneuvers with sharp lyrics, asserting attempts to “fool everybody.”

Jeremy Corbyn’s speech at Wide Awake Festival was a compelling blend of political advocacy and celebration of music’s unifying spirit. His call for support for Gaza and efforts to safeguard music venues highlight how art and activism often go hand in hand.

FAQs About Jeremy Corbyn’s Address and Wide Awake Festival

• What was the main message of Jeremy Corbyn’s speech at Wide Awake Festival?
  Corbyn urged support for the desperate situation in Gaza and the West Bank while highlighting the importance of music venues and festivals in fostering community and creativity.
• Has Jeremy Corbyn taken any formal action regarding Gaza?
  Yes, he has tabled a bill in Parliament calling for an inquiry into the British military’s role in Israeli operations in Gaza.
• What challenges has the Wide Awake Festival faced this year?
  The festival faced a legal challenge regarding planning permissions, which was ruled against the organizers, but events continued with assurances from Brockwell Live.
• What controversy surrounds Kneecap during the festival?
  Member Mo Chara was charged with a terror offense, which the band has strongly protested as a distraction from their political message.
• How does the festival support new music and artists?
  Wide Awake celebrates and protects music venues, encouraging young people to learn music at school and enjoy the creative opportunities music brings.

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