AUSTIN, TX (CelebrityAccess) — In the face of criticism from the artist community over language in their contract for international acts, SXSW organizers have changed their tune.
The controversy arose after band Told Slant announced that they were canceling their SXSW performance due to controversial contract language that suggested appeared to threaten international acts with possible deportation if they perform at concerts that aren't part of the official schedule for the festival, or otherwise act in a way that is detrimental to the artist's official showcase
On Tuesday, SXSW announced that they were amending their contracts to "remove the option of notifying immigration authorities in situations where a foreign artist might 'adversely affect the viability of [the] artist’s official showcase,'" such as playing unofficial shows during the festival.
SXSW organizers went on to affirm that they only cooperate with immigrations officials when required to by law.
"We would like to again apologize for the language in our agreements. We care deeply about the community we serve, and our event is a welcome and safe space for all people," the statement said.
SXSW's full statement can be read here.. – Staff Writers
