Read the band’s complete statement below:
“The members of Tinariwen deeply regret the cancellation of our performances at the Vancouver and Winnipeg Folk Festivals due to the refusal of our applications for Canadian visas.
These were the two largest shows on our current North American tour and we had been very much looking forward to them. The loss of these opportunities is catastrophic for us, both personally and professionally.
We have received visas to enter Canada almost every year since 2004. We are continuing our petition for visas for another tour in November and are doing our best to identify and resolve any issues preventing a successful outcome.
The musicians, crew and management of Tinariwin extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends in Canada for their support, especially the presenters of both festivals and the several Members of Parliament who have spoken out on our behalf.”
Read the The Vancouver Sun article about Tinariwen being denied entry to Canada.