An online petition to have Konstantin removed from ADE’s line-up is gathering force.
Last June, DJ Konstantin was called out for sexist comments made in a piece published by German publication Groove Magazine. The Giegling co-founder was quoted as saying that DJing makes women look “manly” and to take on the decks, women must lose their “female qualities”.
The news that he has been booked for multiple shows at ADE’s upcoming edition – including a Giegling show at SkateCafe, a Circoloco x Loveland party at Mediahaven and a NGHTDVSN x NMH ADE showcase at Het Sieraad – has been met with an online petition. The open letter, hosted on Google, calls on ADE to “not welcome sexism” and remove Konstantin from the line-up. It reads: “We – women, dancers, DJs, writers, bookers, activists and music-lovers – are tired of sexism in the electronic music industry.”
“Overt sexism by male DJs makes the scene inaccessible and dangerous for women,” it continues. “The industry, coming together at ADE, has an opportunity to directly address the issue of sexism through booking practice. One that is currently far from a 50/50 divide on line-ups and behind the scenes.”
“Sexism is not a problem exclusive to this DJ, nor to the Giegling crew. Yet, the fact that they have failed to adequately address his views, and have continued to stand by him, should be taken seriously by everyone in our community: bookers, agents, promoters, audiences and other DJs alike. Therefore: Konstantin should not be playing during ADE.”
A roster of industry insiders have signed the petition including The Black Madonna, Octo Octa, Discwoman, Object Blue, Eclair Fifi and more. Head here to sign the petition.
ADE 2018 takes place on 18-22 October in Amsterdam.