Screens with Ye quotes displayed during Dam Square protest against Arnhem concert

A silent protest took place on Dam Square in Amsterdam against Ye’s (formerly Kanye West’s) planned performance at the GelreDome in Arnhem. Several Jewish and Israeli organisations used the demonstration to criticise what they see as a lack of response from the Dutch government.

“Politicians speak out against antisemitism, but when it really matters, such as with Ye’s appearance and the platform he is given, they remain silent,” one of the organisers said.

Adjacent to the National Monument on Dam Square, two large screens showed antisemitic and pro-Nazi remarks attributed to the rap musician. In front of these screens, 15 desks were set up, each displaying statements from ministers condemning antisemitism. The organisers said the desks symbolise the policymakers responsible for shaping Dutch government policy.

Ye’s concerts have sparked controversy. The Central Jewish Board (CJO) attempted to obtain a court injunction to prevent the rapper from staying in the Netherlands, but the judge rejected the request. The judge ruled that his presence does not pose a concrete threat to public order and noted that his ongoing tour has proceeded without antisemitic incidents.

Meanwhile, the Centre for Information and Documentation Israel (CIDI) is planning a protest near the venue on Saturday.

Arnhem Mayor Ahmed Marcouch stated that while Ye's past remarks, such as his 2025 track "Heil Hitler,” are detestable, a permit cannot legally be denied based on social or personal disapproval. He emphasized that any unlawful remarks made during the shows will be handled by the Public Prosecution Service.