Black Lives in Music (BLiM) recently reported to the London Assembly that Black artists and promoters are facing systemic discrimination in nightlife licensing by local councils and police. The claims were made by BLiM's CEO, Charisse Beaumont, at a recent inquiry focused on the challenges of London’s nightlife, highlighting that these unfair practices are connected to a broader racial bias.
Beaumont pointed out that restrictions are disproportionately impacting Black and ethnic minority artists, leading to significant cancellations of events. According to her, events are usually canceled under broad licensing objectives, including 'preventing crime and disorder' and promoting public safety. She argued that the constant questioning of safety surrounding these events often reflects a “racist narrative.”
The inquiry revealed that, due to excessive regulation and over-policing, many artists find it difficult to secure gigs in venues, resulting in them being crowded out by larger corporate promoters. Beaumont noted that this issue is particularly evident with niche events such as Bollywood shows or jazz ensembles which cater to Black and brown audiences, suffering greater scrutiny than similar events in adjacent venues.
Further, Beaumont cited a 2021 survey by BLiM, which reported that 86% of Black musicians identified barriers to career progression within the industry. The organization seeks to empower Black professionals and combat these limitations.
Responding to these claims, Ian Graham, the Metropolitan Police's chief licensing officer, maintained that the aim is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all Londoners, reiterating that they engage with venues before withdrawing licenses. Graham's comments underscored an ongoing dialogue about the balance of public safety and support for diverse cultural events.