The musician shared his intention to donate funds in wake of global “pushback against civil liberties” and access to reproductive healthcare.

Irish artist Hozier announced in an Instagram post yesterday that he would be making a donation to a number of organisations “ensuring women and pregnant people can gain safe access to healthcare.” These organisations include MayDay, Plan C and AidAccess.

While also announcing the release of a new song ‘Swan Upon Leda’ this Friday, he revealed that the song was recorded during the announcement of Roe v Wade and felt there was an opportunity “to show some solidarity.”

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A post shared by Andrew Hozier Byrne (@hozier)

He made reference to the rescinding of Roe v Wade in the United States, a move that put women’s access to reproductive healthcare and services at serious risk. A number of states have enacted sweeping bans on abortion, many limited or no exceptions.

Ongoing protests in Iran in response the death of Masha Amini in police custody also inspired the donation, the 32 year old singer revealed.

“We’re reminded by the recent protests in Iran that progressivism is a global movement. The recent pushback against civil liberties and human rights respects no boundaries or borders, and like all acts of control, violence and indeed all forms of occupation, their legacies can be immeasurable in both the personal and political spheres.”

Hozier is no stranger to forms of activism, as a vocal member of housing organisation Home Sweet Home and as a voice of support during the Repeal the Eighth Amendment movement in 2016. In August 2020, Hozier was one of a number of public figures whose social media accounts were being monitored by the Department of Justice for criticising Direct Provision. Marian Keyes and Blindboy’s social media accounts were also being monitored.

Elsewhere on District: NWC demand free contraception for girls under 16