Day 8: Racism In The Music Industry

| CHALLENGE | DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 | DAY 4 | DAY 5 | DAY 6 | DAY 7 | DAY 8 | DAY 9 | DAY 10 |

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The world of music is often celebrated as a universal language, connecting people across cultures. However, racism casts a shadow over the creative process and limits opportunities for artists of color. Its roots in the US have a long history of segregation and discrimination. During the early 20th century, Black musicians faced immense barriers, including the exclusion from mainstream venues and unequal pay. The jazz and blues pioneers of the era, such as Louis Armstrong and Bessie Smith, had to battle systemic racism to share their art with the world.

Systemic Racism in music

Systemic racism within the music industry perpetuates a cycle of unequal opportunities, limiting the exposure and recognition of artists of color. One of the most evident manifestations is the underrepresentation of artists of color, especially in genres dominated by white artists. This restricts artistic expression and reinforces harmful stereotypes. In some cases, artists of color are tokenized or pigeonholed into specific genres or roles, limiting their creative freedom. This not only stifles their individuality but also commodifies their identity for profit.

Structural inequalities within the industry make it difficult for artists of color to access opportunities, secure record deals, or receive fair compensation. These barriers include biased hiring practices, unequal access to resources, and limited support for artists from marginalized communities.

Cultural appropriation involves the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without acknowledgment or respect. This is evident when non-Black artists profit from Black music and style, often without giving proper credit or reparations. Artists of color frequently receive lower compensation than their white counterparts, despite equal or superior talent and success. This wage gap perpetuates economic inequality within the industry. Additionally, leadership positions are still predominantly occupied by white individuals and lack of diversity in executive roles contributes to the perpetuation of systemic racism.

A Way Forward

Representation matters. Promote and support artists of color by listening to and purchasing their music. Diversify your playlists. Attend concerts and shows by artists from diverse backgrounds.

Challenge stereotypes. Recognize and reject harmful stereotypes perpetuated by the industry. Encourage discussions about cultural appropriation and the importance of respecting artistic influences.

Support diversity in leadership. Advocate for diversity in executive roles within the industry. Encourage organizations to implement inclusive hiring practices and provide mentorship opportunities for marginalized individuals.

Educate and engage. Engage in conversations about racism in the music industry and educate yourself on the experiences of artists of color. Promote dialogue and awareness within your communities.

Racism in the music industry is a deeply entrenched problem with a long history. By acknowledging its existence, understanding its impact, and actively working towards change, we can strive for a future where the beauty of music truly knows no boundaries, where all voices are heard, and where artists of every background can thrive and inspire. 

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IF YOU HAVE…

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5 Minutes	and	20 Minutes	and	1 hour
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE that examines the complex debate surrounding music as cultural appreciation or appropriation.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE  featuring a roundtable among Asian American & Pacific Islander musicians in the industry.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO of Academy Award winner & Cree singer-songwriter Buffy Sainte-Marie & singer-songwriter/mental health expert, Jewel.

 

Additional resources:

Glossary

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REFLECT

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Take a moment to reflect today’s challenge and any insights you experienced.

• Download and complete the full Racial Justice Challenge Reflection template here.
  • Questions to consider:
    • What feelings or emotions did I notice while completing today’s challenge?
    • What did I learn? (This could be a new concept, idea, or word.)
    • Why is this topic/subject important?
    • What behaviors and beliefs do I want to let go of?
• Consider sharing any parts of this challenge with a friend or group to help deepen your understanding of the information.
• Join us Friday, 9/29 at noon via Zoom for a Week 2 debrief session.

  Meeting link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84927226372?pwd=MFV6dDgrOTVGSFhGYm9UWWZ5UWFHZz09

  Meeting ID: 849 2722 6372

  Passcode: letmein

• Continue the conversation online and connect with others by joining our Racial & Social Justice Facebook group.

Just joining the Racial Justice Challenge? Register and find the previous days here. Please take the pre-challenge survey – it will help prepare your mind and body to dive into these racial and social topics and provide us valuable feedback for future challenges.

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SUPPORT THIS WORK

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Special thanks to our mission partners

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If you would like to learn more about partnering with YWCA Spokane in support of this Racial Justice Challenge, please contact Erica Schreiber, Director of Community Engagement via email ericas@ywcaspokane.org or via phone at 509-789-8275.

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| CHALLENGE | DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 | DAY 4 | DAY 5 | DAY 6 | DAY 7 | DAY 8 | DAY 9 | DAY 10 |