Following accusations of misconduct against the band’s founding member, Win Butler, Arcade Fire’s opening act, Feist, has pledged to support Women’s Aid.

Singer-songwriter Feist will donate all proceeds of merchandise sold at Arcade Fire’s concert in Dublin to Women’s Aid.

Arcade Fire began their We tour yesterday at the 3 Arena, with opening support from singer-songwriter Feist. Attendants spotted a sign announcing that all proceeds from the singer’s merchandise will go to Women’s Aid Dublin.

Feist has not made a comment about this decision. But it comes following accusations of sexual misconduct against Arcade Fire’s frontman Win Butler.

According to Pitchfork, the women were aged between 18 and 23 years old at the time of alleged interactions, which they say took place from 2016 to 2020, when Butler was aged between 36 and 39. The victims said “they came to feel [the interactions] were inappropriate given the gaps in age, power dynamics, and context in which they occurred.”

Another victim said that Butler sexually assaulted them twice when they were 21 and Butler was 34. 

Butler has denied that any non-consensual activities took place, telling Pitchfork that he was sorry he had not been “more aware and tuned in to the effect” he has on people. He made no mention of the allegations at yesterday’s concert. Feist has also not commented on the allegations.

Mixed reactions for Feist

Reactions for Feist’s decision have been mixed online. Some have criticised the singer for not directly acknowledging the allegations and continuing to take part in the concert tour.

Other Twitter users have defended Feist, arguing that Feist is likely contractually obliged to perform despite allegations. Others have also argued that negative energy should be directed at the singer accused of sexual assault rather than his support act.

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