Join the Movement: Support Decolonise Fest’s 2024 Weekender Fundraiser Now!

Decolonise Fest, an annual celebration of music, workshops, and art created by and for punks of colour, has been a key component of London’s DIY punk scene since 2017. Founded by Big Joanie guitarist and writer Stephanie Phillips, the festival advocates for emerging artists of colour and provides a platform for their voices to be heard.

The team behind Decolonise Fest has recently launched a fundraising drive to ensure the success of their 2024 weekender. In a statement on social media, the organisers expressed their need for support from the community due to the changing landscape of the music industry, with venues closing down and inflation rising.

While the festival has received funding from the PRS Foundation for their On Tour series of shows, they face unexpected expenses that jeopardize their plans for this year’s main event. The festival prides itself on being independent and progressive, run by POC volunteers who dedicate their time to showcasing artists of colour and providing a space for POC fans of alternative music to celebrate themselves.

To meet their goal of raising £4500 by the end of June to stage the festival in September 2024, Decolonise Fest is reaching out to the public for support. They are committed to not compromising their values and are relying on the community to come together and make this event a reality.

If you would like to contribute to the fundraiser and learn more about the event, you can visit the official website or follow their updates on Instagram. The festival is scheduled to take place from September 11-13 at Signature Brew Haggerston in East London.

Decolonise Fest is more than just a music festival—it is a celebration of diversity and a platform for underrepresented voices in the punk scene. By supporting this event, you are not only contributing to the growth of the music community but also championing inclusivity and representation in the industry.

Join Decolonise Fest in their mission to amplify the voices of artists of colour and create a space where everyone is welcome. Together, let’s make a difference in the DIY punk scene and ensure that diverse perspectives are heard and celebrated.