update: Putting his support behind the NAACP's economic boycott against the tourism industry in South Carolina, hip-hop artist Wyclef Jean [ tickets ] has cancelled a concert that was scheduled to take place today (3/24) at the College of Charleston in Charleston, S.C.

The economic sanctions, which the NAACP put into effect on Jan. 1, are intended to convince the state to stop flying the Confederate battle flag atop its capitol building.

"As much as I hate to cancel a show, I cannot in good conscience perform in a state that has an emblem of racism and division flying over its capitol,'' Jean said in a statement. "I am in full support of the NAACP's initiatives and feel sure that my fans will understand that my actions are to help raise the consciousness of the people of South Carolina and the rest of America."

Jean is in the midst of a brief tour of universities in the eastern U.S.

Other musicians who have refused to perform in the state this year include Destiny's Child, Patti LaBelle, the O'Jays, Eric Benet, Brian McKnight and Gerald LeVert. Noted dancer/choreographer Bill T. Jones also recently withdrew from Charleston's prestigious Spoleto Festival.