Radar Radio has announced they’ll be going offline.
We have made the decision to suspend broadcasting until we are in a position to address the recent commentary around aspects of the station.
— Radar Radio (@RadarRadioLDN) April 16, 2018
The station has recently been at the centre of accusations of cultural appropriation, exploitation and sexual harassment. Earlier this month, Pxssy Palace – a club night run by an all-women crew that provides marginalised communities with a safe space – announced they would be leaving the station, and cited reasons of tokenistic practices. The club night aired their last show on 5 April.
Radar followed with up an apology and stated: “We have taken immediate action to review and assess any shortcomings with the input of all Radar staff, especially those who are female, LGBTQI+ and POC.”
“We will continue to improve how we operate as a workplace to ensure we host a safe, inclusive space for both Radar’s staff and guests and maintain an ongoing conversation with staff.”
However, this week, further allegations have emerged against Radar. Former staff member Ashtart Al-Hurra made a public statement saying she was sexually harassed by Radar DJs during her post and, upon telling HR, was told the company would undergo sensitivity training with staff members. According to friends of Al-Hurra, this was never implemented.
In support of marginalised groups, a roster of artists and labels have announced they will be severing ties with the station, including Club Chai, UK based-musician Lara Rix-Martin, her label Objects Limited, Planet Mu, Ikonika, Young Echo member Jabu and Conducta.
✨ sending positive vibes to everyone leaving radar – been thinking about all of this since they cut my show with no notice & replaced me w 2 middle ages yt men 🙂
— anu (@noanunoparty) April 16, 2018
Why we are leaving @RadarRadioLDN and will not be playing their weekly party this Thursday pic.twitter.com/HmDdsKezYU
— CLUB CHAI (@CLUBCHAI510) April 16, 2018
. @ObjectsLtd and @rixtin will no longer do any work with @RadarRadioLDN https://t.co/5A2epcAVsQ
— ObjectsLtd (@ObjectsLtd) April 16, 2018
Following the allegations made we shall not be working with @RadarRadioLDN for future shows https://t.co/fDu6p0SHS5
— Planet Mu (@Planetmurecords) April 16, 2018
In light of the recent news about Radar Radio, I can no longer continue my show and I’m leaving the station with immediate effect.
— ikonika (@ikonika) April 16, 2018
so last month’s music 4 lovers show was the last one on @RadarRadioLDN but if u enjoyed them then keep ur eyes peeled over the next few months as we re trying to sort a way to keep it going
— Jabu (@JABUyoungecho) April 16, 2018
Due to the news that has come to light today regarding Radar Radio, I have decided to leave the station.
— Conducta (@ConductaUK) April 16, 2018
After 3 years at Radar I’ll no longer be a part of the station. I’ve felt uncomfortable for too long now being a part of something that doesn’t align with my values & this pushes it over the edge. Solidarity to all those who’ve experienced harassment of any kind in the music biz. https://t.co/meLZlin7WS
— India (@indiajordan8) April 16, 2018