Aigul Akhmetshina is speaking out against hate in the world and against the cancellation of artists.

The mezzo-soprano took to social media and said, “In these times it feels deeply wrong that artists constantly stand under pressure – because of politics, religion, nationality or simply because society needs somewhere to unload its frustration. Too often the easiest target becomes art. But our mission is the opposite of division. Even in the darkest times – we are here to bring people together.”

She added, “I cannot stand this hate anymore… It genuinely hurts my heart. The world feels like it’s getting crazier, and I feel institutions today are not protecting artists. It often feels like each artist is left alone – trying to survive this battle. I believe all artforms must now come together – because only we can protest ourselves and take back at least some power. The freedom to create. The freedom to express.

Akhmetshina also spoke out about the cancellation of artists due to politics, nationality, and race, and said that it “destroys the very bridge that art exists to build. We are breaking the places where people could still meet each other as humans.”

She ended the statement noting that “Art is not meant to divide. Art is meant to unite.”

The statement was released after the mezzo posted about the Pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel protesters caused chaos at a concert given by the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra in Paris, in which they interrupted the show with flares and clashed with audience members, leading to four arrests.

It also comes as Russian bass Ildar Abdrazakov’s contract at the Teatro Fiolarmonico was canceled due to his ties with the Putin regime.

Here is the full statement:

 

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