The Sketches drop out of LSA 2019 in solidarity with sexual harassment victims

Band has 'withdrawn' nominations from four categories

After Eman Suleman, Meesha Shafi, Generation and Saima Bargfede, The Sketches also dropped out of 18th Lux Style Awards. The band categorically mentioned such measures have been taken to stand in solidarity with the victims of sexual harassment.

The band, which was nominated in four categories has 'withdrawn' all nominations, said an official statement.

The statement read that "the band holds values and principles, which, we will not bend for any award."

"We will collectively stand together to challenge the current social norm that sexual abuse and misconduct can be swept under the carpet for an award for a few minutes of fame and underscored that such decisions reveal who among the individuals and organisations "decide whether they stand with the oppressed or the oppressor."

The band also shared that, "Women all around the world have been standing up to build a peaceful world free of toxic masculinity, sexism, and sexual harassment."

"The band considers it our responsibility to applaud and encourage these brave women to speak and be heard," it further read. "The Sketches remains a vibrant voice for the subjugated and victimised. Our audiences and fans have witnessed songs like Meena, Bhora Marhun, Raat, and An Ode to a Liberated Woman, which were inspired by the same principles. Today, we have become a voice for the marginalised, especially of victims of sexual harassment, and we stand in support of all survivors of gender based violence."

"As artists and more so human beings, we strive through our art, to build a more respectful and just society. We cannot do this if we put our conscience aside for cash or credits. We hold no personal grudge or bias against LSA and its attendees."

The band concluded the statement by saying, "With hope that this will ignite a movement beyond the industry, that will spread in the society. With hope that women will be supported, heard and believed at face value and with hope that better sense prevail, we wish all the nominees best of luck."

Read full statement here:

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