JUST days before the National Rifle Association’s 2022 convention in Houston, a gunman killed 21 people in what is being described as one of the worst school shootings in history.
As a result, several artists have pulled out of the NRA’s scheduled concert.
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What artists backed out of the NRA concert?
On Friday, May 27, 2022, the NRA opened its annual convention in Houston despite facing backlash related to the Robb Elementary School shooting that happened just days prior.
As part of the annual convention, the NRA hosts the “NRA Grand Ole Night of Freedom” with various artists, but many have since backed out of the show out of respect for those who lost their lives.
Among the artists who have backed out include Lee Greenwood, Don McLean, Danielle Peck, Larry Gatlin, T. Graham Brown, and Larry Stewart.
“As a father, I join the rest of America in being absolutely heartbroken by the horrific event that transpired this week in Texas,” Greenwood said in a statement, according to Variety.
“I was scheduled to perform at NRA’s private event on Saturday with my band. After thoughtful consideration, we have decided to cancel the appearance out of respect for those mourning the loss of those innocent children and teachers in Uvalde.”
In a separate statement from NBC News, McLean, who is known for the 1971 classic American Pie, added: “In light of the recent events in Texas, I have decided it would be disrespectful and hurtful for me to perform for the NRA at their convention in Houston this week.
“I’m sure all the folks planning to attend this event are shocked and sickened by these events as well. After all, we are all Americans.
“I share the sorrow for this terrible, cruel loss with the rest of the nation.”
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What did the NRA say about the Uvalde school shooting?
On May 24, 2022, 18-year-old Salvador Ramos entered Robb Elementary school with several guns and proceeded to take the lives of 19 students and two teachers.
Despite the horrific attack, the NRA still proceeded with its annual convention but said in an online statement that people attending would “reflect on” the shooting and “pray for the victims, recognize our patriotic members and pledge to redouble our commitment to making our schools secure,” according to the Associated Press.
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According to Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, the city was “obligated” to host the NRA event because of a contract, but he urged politicians to skip it, the Associated Press adds.
“You can’t pray and send condolences on one day and then be going and championing guns on the next. That’s wrong,” Turner said.
How long is the NRA Convention?
The 2022 event began on May 27 and will last through May 29.
According to the NRA website, the exhibit hall will be open the entire weekend and will consist of “over 14 acres of the latest guns and gear from the most popular companies in the industry.”
On May 25, 2022, it was announced that former President Donald Trump would headline a forum at the convention.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Senator John Cornyn, Senator Ted Cruz, Rep. Dan Crenshaw, North Carolina Lt. Governor Mark Robinson, and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem are all expected to attend.
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