Black Lives In Music launches Anti-Racism Code Of Conduct for UK industry

Black Lives In Music (BLiM) has launched its Anti-Racism Code of Conduct for the UK music industry today, 23rd October, at WOMEX in Manchester.

The code, which aims to create a more equitable music sector, has been endorsed by the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) and has already gained the support of key organisations, including the Independent Society of Musicians, Attitude Is Everything and the Musicians’ Union.

This initiative is part of BLiM’s ongoing efforts to address racial inequality in the music industry, building on their groundbreaking 2021 Being Black in the Music Industry survey. The report, the largest of its kind, uncovered the extent of racial discrimination faced by Black musicians and professionals, with 63% reporting they had experienced racism. It also highlighted the mental health impacts, particularly on Black women and disabled people, and a significant earnings disparity for Black women in the industry. BLiM called for an Anti-Racism Support Service and other initiatives to tackle these systemic issues.

To address these findings, the new code outlines commitments for companies in the music industry to ensure accountability around diversity and inclusion. It includes measures for transparency, education on employee rights, tackling discrimination and offering support and training, aiming to create a safer, fairer environment for all.

Roger Wilson, BLiM’s Co-founder and Director of Operations, said, “BLiM is thrilled to be attending WOMEX 24. It’s fitting that at the 30th anniversary of this magnificent event, BLiM will launch its Anti-Racism Code of Conduct and introduce EquiTrack, an upcoming digital tool crucial in supporting organisations to drive change. EquiTrack highlights the innovative side of BLiM, utilising technology to support the sector.  I’m convinced its launch later in the year will be a game changer for shifting the dial in the fight against racism while informing best practice on inclusive culture.”

EquiTrack, a new digital tool to be unveiled later this year, will allow organisations to assess, track, and measure their diversity and inclusion progress in real-time, further supporting the industry’s commitment to equity.

This announcement builds on BLiM’s September statement, which highlighted ongoing discrimination against Black and Brown artists in event licensing across London. BLiM CEO Dr. Charisse Beaumont, speaking to the London Assembly’s Economy, Culture and Skills Committee, said: “Our events get cancelled just because they’re a Bollywood event, or it could be jazz, or it could be drum and bass… Black and Brown promoters face this every single day.”

Alexander Walter, WOMEX director, also praised the initiative. “Today marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward an equitable music industry,” he said. “WOMEX is proud to serve as the launching pad for Black Lives in Music’s transformative Anti-Racism Code of Conduct.”

The Code has received further endorsements from key figures in the industry. Celia Makin-Bell, Managing Director of Attitude is Everything, said, “We welcome their Anti-Racism Code of Conduct, which we see as a vital part of ensuring inclusion and safe working environments for black disabled people.” Jon Collins, Chief Executive of LIVE, added, “data is vital to informed decision making, shaping new policies and procedures and measuring our progress.  EquiTrack will provide the platform to allow us all to assess the steps required to take and measure our progress.”

BLiM’s Anti-Racism Code of Conduct and EquiTrack reflect their ongoing commitment to tackling racial discrimination and creating a more inclusive UK music industry. Read the Anti-Racism Code of Conduct here and the report Being Black in the Music Industry here.

Read DJ Mag’s 2022 feature on how Black-led music organisations are creating opportunities for emerging talent here.