Yesterday in a statement posted on his personal web site, Phil Anselmo revealed that he’d asked Down, a supergroup he’s at the center of, to continue on without him. Although there’s no word on whether that’s actually going to be seriously considered by the rest of the band, it likely won’t be if Pepper Keenan has anything to do with it. The guitarist, who’s in Corrosion of Conformity as well as Down, issued a statement via Facebook saying that while he didn’t agree with Anselmo’s racist act a few weeks back, he accepted the singer’s apology:

Any one who knows me is aware that I am not one to dabble much in social media, however due to what transpired last week at Dimebash I feel the need to respond and reach out to friends, family, music peers and fans worldwide.

I am saddened and confused by the behavior of Philip Anselmo last week. I do not condone what was gestured and said. This lapse in judgment of “making a joke” was in terribly poor taste and unacceptable.

That philosophy is the opposite of what I am about. My heart follows love and soul and my music has been inspired from people of all walks of life and musical styles. I view music as a gift that is universal and intended for all of humanity. As a proud New Orleanian, life is about celebrating diversity through music, it’s about bringing people together, not tearing apart.

I won’t speak for Phil but I’ve known him most of my life and I know there is not hate in his heart, however I hope at this moment in time Phil will focus his energy on self-reflection and begin the process of regaining perspective, healing himself and those lives he has touched through music

Through Down, Philip and I have written many beautiful and powerful songs in the past that have touched and inspired people from all walks of life positively and have helped pull many out of their own darkest hours. This is not something I take for granted and should always be at the forefront of one’s conscience to keep you grounded, humbled and grateful.

One of the responsibilities and joys, in my opinion, of being an artist or musician is having the ability to help make the world a better place.

I accept Phil’s apology, and I believe he can.

I’ll be there…if needed.

Love and Respect,

Pepper Keenan

While Down’s only scheduled show before a series of festival appearances was set to take place this coming Monday (8) in the band’s hometown of New Orleans, that’s not to be, as the venue has canceled that show, becoming the second Down show to be canceled in the wake of the backlash towards Anselmo, following the FortaRock festival removing them from the bill.

After recent actions by Phil Anselmo during the Dimebash event this past week, we have cancelled Down’s performance at the Civic. We do not tolerate intolerant behavior, and there is no room for that in our venue or our city. Refunds are available at point of purchase. In addition to offering full refunds on all ticket purchases, the Civic has made a donation to the Jewish Federation of New Orleans, pledging our support for a united community. “Me only have one ambition, y’know. I only have one thing I really like to see happen. I like to see mankind live together – black, white, Chinese, everyone – that’s all.” – Bob Marley

Meanwhile, the petition to get them removed from the Download festival has passed 1,000 signatures.