"Musicians Boycott SXSW Over Military Sponsorships, Clashing with Texas Governor"

Texas Governor Abbott and SXSW are at odds after over 60 bands dropped out of the festival due to the U.S. Army's sponsorship and the inclusion of defense contractors on conference panels. Abbott told the musicians not to come back if they don't like it, prompting a response from SXSW, which defended the artists' right to free speech. The boycott is centered around the defense industry's presence at the festival, with allegations that the contractors are contributing to conflicts around the world. SXSW maintains its commitment to diverse viewpoints and understanding of controversial systems, while the boycott is supported by the United Musicians and Allied Workers organization.