MISSION

Beginning in August of 2020, CIMA, The Canadian Independent Music Association facilitated a series of roundtable discussions on anti-Black racism in the Canadian music entertainment industry. The series was presented in association with supporting partner ADVANCE, Canada’s new Black Music Business Collective which works to develop an infrastructure for the betterment, upliftment and retention of Black people in the music business. CIMA invited peer and partner organizations from across the national industry to support the initiative.

Initiated, curated and coordinated in association with entertainment community mainstays Ian Andre Espinet and David “Click” Cox, these discussions were CENTRED in the voices and lived experiences of working Black music professionals from the vast segments of music entertainment.

GOAL

This moment in time was recognized as a MOVEMENT, and the opportunity was seized to have difficult, yet critical conversations in an effort to identify the structures and behaviours that perpetuate anti-Black racism within the music entertainment industry. After listening to the experiences and the lessons contained therein, the accumulated knowledge was be used to compile a report containing ACTIONABLE suggestions for CHANGE.

“Breaking Down Racial Barriers: Anti-Black Racism in the Canadian Music Industry - Volume 1” provides a snapshot of anti-Black racism in the Canadian music industry, the spaces in which it proliferates and persists, and it's systemic, systematic and institutional causes. Finally, it provides recommendations to be implemented by individuals, corporations, and organizations seeking to combat inequity. The report provides a synopsis and executive summary of recommendations based on the 10-part BDRB roundtable discussions. and tenets of the BDRB Declaration (June 2021).

It is hoped that this report will be utilized by peer & partner organizations and the wider community as a first step in correcting anti-Black racism within their spaces. This is not to be viewed as a checklist exercise and will lead organizations far beyond simple performative allyship. Accountability is key.