The Gaslight Anthem have responded to “abhorrent” reports that fans have experienced sexual assault at their comeback shows.
- Have you experienced sexual assault at a show? You can contact Safe Gigs For Women here.
The New Jersey rockers urged fans to speak out on Twitter after a number of gig-goers claimed that they were assaulted during the band’s recent ’59 Sound’ anniversary tour.
“To our Gaslight family: We’ve been angered and saddened to hear reports of sexual assault and harassment in the audience at our shows”, the band wrote.
“From the very beginning of this band, we have strived to create a positive and safe environment for our fans. This kind of abhorrent behavior can not and will not be tolerated at our shows.
To our Gaslight family:
We've been angered and saddened to hear reports of sexual assault and harassment in the audience at our shows. From the very beginning of this band, we have strived to create a positive and safe environment for our fans–
— The Gaslight Anthem (@gaslightanthem) August 29, 2018
they can get away with their behavior. As a result, we want to help to shine a light on the issue and ask our fans to do the same.
We’ve reached out to the authorities and the venues that were involved in these incidents.
— The Gaslight Anthem (@gaslightanthem) August 29, 2018
There are a number of amazing organizations raising awareness and providing education around this problem, including Safe Gigs For Women. https://t.co/Z2WbDSdHGE
— The Gaslight Anthem (@gaslightanthem) August 29, 2018
If you see something please say something, get involved, and help however you can. We want everyone looking out for each other.
— The Gaslight Anthem (@gaslightanthem) August 29, 2018
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“It’s clear that this disturbing trend is on the rise in our industry, and that ignoring or dismissing the problem sends a very clear message to perpetrators that they can get away with their behavior. As a result, we want to help to shine a light on the issue and ask our fans to do the same.
“We’ve reached out to the authorities and the venues that were involved in these incidents.”
Although the band did not mention any specific alleged incidents, they urged those affected to contact Safe Gigs For Women – who have been hailed for their work in tackling sexual assault.
“We want everyone looking out for each other”, they added.
Earlier this year, Gaslight Anthem frontman Brian Fallon released second album ‘Sleepwalkers’ and discussed the making of the record with NME. Check out the interview here.