Through an internal memo, Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino has reached out to his employees across 41 countries, stating that he and the company are “fundamentally opposed” to the immigration band ordered by the Donald Trump. Pollstar reports that the memo, delivered to Live Nation employees this week, is a response to a January 27 executive order by the White House that temporarily bans travel from the United States to seven Middle Eastern countries. The order has led to confusion and protest at airports around the world.
Rapino, who is Canadian, also stressed Live Nation’s diversity and tolerance. Last year, he was listed as the second most powerful person in music by Billboard’s annual Power 100 ranking.
Live Nation operates several venues around Boston, including the House of Blues, Paradise Rock Club, and Blue Hills Bank Pavilion. Read Rapino’s full memo below.
“Over the past few days, I’ve heard from many of you with concerns about the immigration ban and the uncertainty facing the US.
Live Nation is global and diverse. We operate in 41 countries and have employees on every continent. Whether you are an employee, artist or fan, Live Nation respects all viewpoints and is fundamentally opposed to an immigration policy that divides us along religious lines or borders.
I want to assure you that HR has reached out to those in our organization who are potentially affected by the ban and we will continue to help our employees in any way possible to navigate through this confusing time.
I encourage you to come to me directly with your concerns and ideas about how to improve and empower our workplace with diversity and tolerance.”