Pop music sensation Taylor Swift concluded her performances in Madrid on May 30 and is now touring Europe with her groundbreaking Eras Tour. However, recent developments concerning the homelessness crisis in Edinburgh, Scotland, ahead of Swift’s concert dates have sparked a backlash.
Reports from TMZ indicate that homeless individuals have been displaced in Edinburgh before the “Lavender Haze” artist’s shows, which has prompted negative reactions from homeless advocacy groups.
Swift’s Eras Tour is scheduled for performances in Edinburgh on June 7-9, and it has come to light that homeless people near Murrayfield Stadium have been forced to leave their temporary accommodations in the city due to the arrival of Swift’s fans.
Alison Watson, Shelter Scotland Director, expressed her concerns to BBC, stating the conflict between housing the homeless and tourists undermines justice and fairness.
Watson emphasized the problem lies with the city’s infrastructure and not with Taylor Swift. She criticized the long-term lack of investment in the social housing sector.
Scottish authorities, in response, explain that the decision to relocate the homeless encampments isn’t related to the music event.
The housing shortage, according to Edinburgh City Council housing convenor representative Jane Meagher, has led to the need to use tourist accommodations for the homeless, but she assures that it isn’t related to the upcoming concerts.
Looking ahead, Swift will continue her Eras Tour with upcoming shows in Lyon, France (June 2-3), then in Edinburgh, and later Liverpool from June 13-15.
FAQs About Taylor Swift’s Edinburgh Eras Tour Dates and Homelessness Issue
Why is there controversy over Taylor Swift’s Edinburgh concerts?
The controversy arises from reports that homeless individuals have been removed from their temporary accommodations in Edinburgh to make room for the influx of tourists attending Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concerts.
Who is raising concerns about the treatment of homeless people?
Shelter Scotland Director Alison Watson and other homelessness advocacy organizations have raised concerns, stating that the displacement of homeless people for tourists is an “injustice.”
Is Taylor Swift being blamed for the homelessness issue in Edinburgh?
No, Alison Watson and officials have clarified that the issue is related to long-standing underinvestment in social housing and not directly attributable to Taylor Swift or her tour.
What has been the City of Edinburgh Council’s response?
Jane Meagher of the Edinburgh City Council stated that the use of tourist accommodations for housing the homeless is a last resort due to the housing emergency. The council is working to find alternative accommodations for the affected individuals.
Where is Taylor Swift heading after her Madrid performances?
Following her Madrid shows, Taylor Swift is set to perform in Lyon, France, then in Edinburgh, Scotland, and will continue her tour in Liverpool, England.