DIVERSITY IN U.K. INDIES STUDIED

IMPALA, the U.K.'s Independent Music Companies Association, has released the results of its first diversity and inclusion survey of the independent music sector, finding that issues of race and ethnicity, followed by gender and socioeconomic status, present obstacles to equality.

The survey, which can be read here, had two key aims: 1) Map best practices, local developments and projects regarding diversity and inclusion and 2) start building a basic picture of the sector’s diversity and the key issues faced. It was directed at businesses and associations.

Said Keith Harris, adviser to IMPALA’s equity, diversity and inclusion task force: “This is a learning process for the sector, and it’s encouraging to see the independents pushing on with their commitments. The most important thing is always to get started. One question we could add in the future would be whether respondents feel there's a business benefit in having a diverse workforce or if they feel it's just the right thing to do. I encourage IMPALA to continue working on this. The report provides it with useful information to move forward.”

Funding and other support for projects emerged as a key need, and IMPALA intends to ask the European Commission to develop more EU diversity-related funding opportunities to allow the sector to initiate change. IMPALA will also spread awareness about EU funding and make sure members know what's available. The report further asks national associations to check if there are national funds and share the news, as well as push for more support. The dissemination of best practices was likewise highlighted as a priority.

“The results will serve as a baseline to measure progress in the future as we foster a more diverse and inclusive music sector,” said Paul Pacifico, Association of Independent Music CEO and the co-chair of IMPALA’s equity, diversity and inclusion task force.