A scheduled performance by Kanye West in Poland has been officially canceled following widespread condemnation of the artist's recent antisemitic and pro-Nazi statements. The concert, set for June 19 at the Silesian Stadium in Chorzów, was called off by the venue citing "formal and legal reasons."
Polish Culture and Heritage Minister Marta Cienkowska strongly criticized the decision to book West, labeling it "unacceptable." In a statement on social media, she emphasized, "We are talking about an artist who has publicly expressed antisemitic views, downplayed crimes, and profited from selling swastika T-shirts. Culture cannot be a space for those who exploit it to spread hatred."
This cancellation adds to a series of setbacks for West's European tour. Earlier this week, his performance in France was postponed, and last week, the UK government blocked his entry to headline the Wireless Festival, leading to the event's complete cancellation.
West's controversial actions include selling swastika-themed merchandise last year, which prompted Shopify to remove his online store, and releasing a track titled "Heil Hitler," where he attributed his shift toward Nazism to personal legal battles. In January, he issued a public apology in the Wall Street Journal, stating, "I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people," and cited his bipolar disorder as a factor in his behavior.
Poland's historical context adds weight to the decision. During World War II, Nazi Germany operated concentration and extermination camps on Polish soil, resulting in the deaths of millions, including three million Polish Jews. Chorzów, the concert's intended location, was among the first towns invaded by German forces in September 1939. Promoting Nazi symbols is a criminal offense in Poland, punishable by up to three years in prison.
Prior to the cancellation, a spokesperson for the culture ministry noted the legal complexities in blocking the event but confirmed that both the ministry and the foreign ministry agreed it should not proceed. The rapper's European tour continues to face scrutiny as authorities and venues reassess his appearances in light of his controversial statements.