Roots & Rhymes duo start petition to support British Asian events industry
The past year and the impact of the Global Pandemic have, without doubt, had a devastating impact on the UK economy as a whole. However, one industry that has received little or no government recognition or support is the UK’s Live Event Industry and within that sits the sub-economy of the British-Asian events industry – from large scale Melas and festivals, to live gigs, concerts, community events and exhibitions, all of which have been devastated.
During this global pandemic, Chunz and Makh, the duo behind leading podcast Roots & Rhymes have been in conversation with entertainers, musicians and performing artists about the impact it has had and continues to have on their livelihoods and mental health. Having had first-hand experience, and through their ongoing conversations, Chunz and Makh decided to take the issue into their own hands, with the launch of this fundraising campaign.
The British-Asian live events industry needs urgent support if it is going to survive the COVID-19 crisis. To that extent, the podcasters joined forces with the international movement #WeMakeEvents to help raise awareness that the industry as a whole, is on the verge of collapse.
British-Asian events contribute significantly towards the UK’s live event industry and without raising awareness it could be devastating for this sub-culture. This is likely to affect not just the talent but the thousands of people who work behind the scenes to ensure that these events look and sound great.
Gary White, Lead Producer at #WeMakeEvents said: “The live events industry is vitally important to this country and contributes billions of pounds each year to the UK economy. We’re extremely excited to have Chunz and Makh from Roots & Rhymes on board and campaigning to the British-Asian community, which is a major contributor to this industry. Together we will be committed to keep this industry going and ensure those affected are supported.”
As a part of the brand-new season of the podcast, Roots & Rhymes have made a commitment to reach an initial target of £1000 which will be donated to #WeMakeEvents chosen charity Backup.
Backup aims to provide people within the events industry support with any essential financial commitments due to ill-health or unforeseen financial hardship. Individuals can apply for support directly through the charity to help pay bills etc if they’re struck by COVID or unexpected financial distress or hardship as a result of the pandemic.
Donations can be made via #WeMakeEvents Team Page here.
