So you want to talk about racism in the alt music scene?
Okay. Then let’s do something constructive about it.
Note: I personally think looking toward a celebrity / rock star / influencer / fandom BNF for performative allyship is a waste of time. I think there’s a lot of nuance lost in generational and life experience gaps and I’m not going to engage in that conversation.
What I want to do instead is focus on what I can do for myself and my local community to take active steps in making the alt music scene a more inclusive and less racist space. I’m a big believer in building up and supporting your local music scene as much as possible, so the (totally not comprehensive, but def a starting point) list I’ve curated below will reflect those core values I hold for myself.
BROADLY, QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF:
What POC artists / artists of color are you listening to? Are you buying their albums? Buying their merch? Requesting their songs at your local radio station?
YOUR LOCAL MUSIC SCENE:
When shows return post-pandemic - will you go see any local POC artists?
Are you able to use your contacts to help these artists books shows?
Maybe request the local music club to book certain bands? Show promoters will listen if there seems to be enough interest for them to make money on ticket sales/door fees. (You can usually google your local music venue + booking to try and find this information)
College music stations - if you’re in a college town - there’s a great opportunity to get involved (esp if you’re a student) with helping curate what music gets put in rotation.
Are you able to host a show? House shows are the ULTIMATE music scene DIY - if you’re in a position to offer up your house/space as a venue for bands to come and play, why not make a point to seek out POC artists and have them be part of the line up?
SoFarSounds.com is another great avenue for the house show route.
Follow: To The Front DIY
DIVERSIFY YOUR NARRATIVE:
LISTEN:
READ:
WATCH:
Racism in the Punk/Alternative Scene
The Very Black History of Punk Music
The Very Latinx History of Punk
The Asian Punk Scene
Anarchy in the Philippines
Punk Jews
Your Favorite Entertainer is Problematic
Racism in Metal
HELP THE NEXT GENERATION OF MUSICIANS WITH DONATIONS & SUPPORT:
Or Google your city + “youth music programs” or “youth after school programs” and volunteer / donate / support!
Thank you everyone for the enthusiasm for this post! Please continue to reblog with any additional resources you may have to share as well. As I said, this is a starting point.