BLiM unveils its industry-wide Anti-Racism Code Of Conduct

Today (October 23), Black Lives in Music (BLiM) is unveiling its groundbreaking Anti-Racism Code Of Conduct, which aims to dismantle racial discrimination in the UK music industry by committing organisations to certain duties and modes of practice.

Supported by the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA), The Code promises to pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive environment for "Black, Asian and ethnically diverse" employees, freelancers, interns, volunteers, workers, sub-contractors and creatives, working in music.

It is an important and necessary initiative that tackles the issues found by BLiM in their 2021 ‘Being Black in the Music Industry’ survey – the largest survey ever to focus on the experiences of black musicians and industry professionals.

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This highly praised report found there to be significant racial discrimination in the music industry with statistics showing over 85% of Black music creators and professionals agree there are barriers to progression, over 70% of Black music professionals have experienced direct or indirect racism, and 31% of Black music creators believe their mental wellbeing has suffered since starting their music career.

The results were exacerbated when narrowed down to just Black women.

In the wake of this, BLiM’s Anti-Racism Code Of Conduct covers a wide range of topics including personal safety, anti-racism training, equal pay, equitable contracts, career development opportunities, transparency, and reporting of discrimination.

It provides a comprehensive guide to creating an inclusive work environment, as well as holding companies accountable for their actions, in order to drive tangible, impactful and sustainable change.

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The initiative is being announced at the WOMEX (Worldwide Music Expo) conference, along with the introduction of EquiTrack, an innovative new digital tool that helps companies to track and measure their progress in achieving diversity and inclusion goals.

Speaking on The Code, Director of WOMEX, Alexander Walter, says: "Today marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward an equitable music industry. As a global platform for the exchange of ideas, music and cultural innovation, WOMEX is proud to serve as the launching pad for Black Lives in Music’s transformative Anti-Racism Code of Conduct.

"This game-changing initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable music industry."

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Set to become the definitive framework for tackling racism in the industry, several vital organisations have already committed to the collective pledge including the Independent Society of Musicians, Attitude Is Everything and Musician’s Union.

View the Anti-Racism Code Of Conduct here.