skip to main content

Racism is a Public Health Crisis

Black Lives Matter UK are calling on the on the public to show support for Black members of the community who are being disproportionately affected by Covid-19 with a musical response on Thursday 4 June.

Published: 03 June 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 12 July 2021 | 5:08 PM
Photograph of a piano player sat at the keyboard
BAME British people are up to four times more likely to die from Covid-19 than White British people. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Research released on Tuesday 2 June from Public Health England confirmed that BAME British people are far more likely to die from Covid-19 than White British people.  And recent events in the USA have shone a light on the inequalities that Black people are facing in the UK too.

The global pandemic has highlighted the life or death consequences of prejudice and discrimination that have existed for long before.

Black Lives Matter UK is calling on members of the public to make some noise in support of Race and Health on Thursday 4 June, at 7:00 pm by playing Jimmy Cliff’s The Harder They Come, from doorsteps, balconies and gardens.

Further actions

Having participated in the music industry wide call for #TheShowMustBePaused yesterday, we will be highlighting further actions that members can take across our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram social media channels.

We also remind members who are going to be involved in marches and peaceful protests this week to stay safe and follow social distancing guidelines.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

A crowd with their hands raised at a music festival.

MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham

Taking place from 7-9 May, FOCUS Wales is an international showcase spotlighting over 250 artists and featuring industry sessions, arts events, film screenings and more. The MU will be hosting a series of coffee morning drop-in sessions, as well as an afternoon mixer event.

Published: 24 February 2026

Read more about MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham
Empty music classroom with seats and sheet stands.

Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks

From 17 February 2026, legislative changes in Northern Ireland allow self-employed musicians working with children and vulnerable adults to apply for an Enhanced AccessNI disclosure check through a registered Umbrella Body.

Published: 23 February 2026

Read more about Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks
MU members and Senedd candidates infront of an MU banner.

MU Members Meet Senedd Candidates to Highlight Music’s Role in Wales’s Economy and Communities

Welsh MU members met Labour Senedd candidates to discuss the future of the music industry in Wales, presenting the Union’s manifesto priorities for fair pay, strong public investment, and long-term sustainability across the sector ahead of the 7 May elections.

Published: 19 February 2026

Read more about MU Members Meet Senedd Candidates to Highlight Music’s Role in Wales’s Economy and Communities
The BBC Symphony Orchestra onstage at th BBC Proms. A huge crowd watches in a lit up room.

Protect Our BBC: Your Chance to Shape its Future

As the BBC Charter comes up for renewal, the MU is urging members to respond to the consultation and support the vital role the BBC plays in sustaining jobs, commissioning new work and underpinning the UK’s music industry. Use our template email to have your say before 10 March.

Published: 19 February 2026

Read more about Protect Our BBC: Your Chance to Shape its Future