Southpaw FLHC have issued an official video statement addressing the controversy that has surrounded the band in recent days, while also confirming that their upcoming fall tour has been canceled.
The statement arrives after Resistor and Resist LA dropped off the previously announced run with the band, following renewed attention surrounding a photo of Southpaw FLHC drummer Harrison Linder wearing a shirt from Curb Stomp, a clothing brand that has been associated with Nazi and white supremacist imagery.
According to Southpaw FLHC, the photo in question was taken approximately five or six months ago while the band were in the studio. The group explained that Linder had received the shirt directly from the company and was unaware of its alleged associations at the time.
The band said the photo was removed once they became aware of the controversy surrounding the shirt, characterizing the situation as a mistake rather than an indication of the band’s beliefs.
“He was uneducated on the fact of what it actually meant and stood for, we simply removed the photo.”
The group went on to reiterate that it does not support racism, while also rejecting accusations of homophobia and transphobia.
“Not a single person in this band is a racist, and we stand on that. We don’t stand with racism. We don’t stand behind racism.”
Southpaw FLHC further described the band’s intended message as one centered around unity and said its music is intended to be inclusive rather than politically driven.
“Southpaw is about unity, mental and physical strength, and is for all walks of life. Doesn’t matter if you’re gay, doesn’t matter if you’re straight, Black, white, Hispanic. It is for everyone.”
The band also stressed that the situation had already been addressed internally after the photo was discovered and removed, but said it was now being revisited months later.
“It was a simple mistake. We respect your position, but I’m going to make it very clear. As I said, once again, not a single person in this band is a racist, and we stand on that.”
The statement ultimately confirmed that Southpaw FLHC have canceled their upcoming tour amid the controversy and the departures of bands and venues from the run.
“The tours have been canceled effective immediately. We could care less about making the money. We do this for the culture of hardcore and for the love of this game and because it’s who we are.”
The band acknowledged the decisions made by the artists and venues that have separated themselves from the shows, while maintaining that they intend to continue forward.
“To the bands that have dropped off of all the bills with our names attached to it and the venues that have chosen to separate themselves understandably so, we hope this finds you well. We will be back. We will remain stronger than ever.”
Southpaw FLHC closed the statement by thanking those who have continued to support the group throughout the controversy.
“We appreciate you for your support. Thank you for y’all’s time, because we ain’t going nowhere.”
The band’s full video statement is available below.
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