Disturbed Concert Disrupted by Climate Protest at Glasgow Hydro
A Disturbed concert at the Glasgow Hydro on Wednesday night was significantly disrupted by climate activists, resulting in a delayed start and repeated interruptions throughout the performance. The protest, organized by the group This Is Rigged, aimed to highlight the band’s sponsorship deal with Barclays Bank, an institution they accuse of heavily investing in fossil fuels.
Around 20 protesters initially infiltrated the venue and strategically positioned themselves within the audience. As the band took to the stage, the activists unfurled banners displaying messages such as “Disturbed by Barclays?” and “This Is Rigged: Stop Funding Fossil Fuels.” They then proceeded to chant slogans and use megaphones to voice their concerns about Barclays’ investment portfolio, specifically targeting the bank’s role in financing environmentally damaging projects.
The band, visibly surprised by the demonstration, initially attempted to continue playing, but the noise and disruption made it impossible. Lead singer David Draiman addressed the crowd, urging the protesters to allow the concert to proceed while acknowledging their right to express their opinions. However, the protests continued intermittently throughout the evening, leading to further delays and frustration among some concert attendees.
Videos circulating on social media show heated exchanges between protesters and audience members, some of whom voiced their support for the cause while others expressed anger at the disruption. Security personnel attempted to remove the protesters, leading to minor scuffles and further delays. Reports suggest that several individuals were eventually escorted from the venue by security and police.
This Is Rigged released a statement online claiming responsibility for the protest and reiterating their demands that Barclays cease its investments in fossil fuels. They argued that the band’s association with the bank inadvertently lends legitimacy to an institution they deem complicit in the climate crisis. The group stated that their actions were intended to raise awareness and pressure both Disturbed and Barclays to reconsider their relationship.
The incident has sparked a debate about the appropriate methods of climate activism, with some arguing that such disruptions are necessary to draw attention to the urgent need for climate action, while others criticize the tactics as being counterproductive and disruptive to the enjoyment of others. The Glasgow Hydro has yet to release an official statement regarding the protest, but it is likely they will review security protocols for future events.
The incident underscores the growing tensions between the entertainment industry and climate activism, as well as the increasingly creative and disruptive tactics employed by environmental groups to draw attention to their cause. It remains to be seen whether this protest will have any lasting impact on Disturbed’s relationship with Barclays or influence the bank’s investment policies.
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