An inclusive community music event with the message of One Beat Many Sounds is taking place in Dorchester on Saturday 25th January 2025. The Love Music Hate Racism gig will celebrate both the vibrant local music scene and communities standing together in unity against hatred and division.
Love Music Hate Racism is a non-partisan campaign which aims to promote unity through the power of music. It uses the energy of the music scene to celebrate diversity and promote anti-racism, in the tradition of the Rock Against Racism movement of the late 1970s.
The event, which is predominantly being organised by students and young people from Dorchester and Weymouth, is being hosted by The Vinyl Van on Brewery Square with doors opening at 7pm. Entry to the event is free thanks to the support of the venue and sponsorship from local organisations.
Harry, a student at Thomas Hardye Sixth Form, said: “Unfortunately we have seen a rise in racism and division across the country but also locally, particularly since the arrival of The Bibby Stockholm in Portland. That is why we wanted to create an event with a positive message for the future and to celebrate the diversity of our local communities.”
Preferring not to be named, a young person of colour and NHS worker from Weymouth added: “We have arranged for some excellent young local bands and artists to perform at the event. After all the challenges of 2024, including the shocking violence that took place in Weymouth back in August, we are looking forward to starting the new year with a message of hope and celebrating the fact that there is much more that unites us than divides us.”
Josh, a support worker also from Weymouth, paid tribute to the sponsors and volunteers who have made the event possible: “We would like to say a big thank you to the bands and artists who are giving up their time to perform on the evening. I would also like to give a special mention to The Vinyl Van, the DWP Public and Commecial Services Union Dorset Branch and Excelsior Coaches. Their support means we are able to offer attendees free entry to the event and remove barriers for anyone in our community who would like to be part of what will be a fantastic occasion.”
Further information can be found by visiting lovemusichateracism.com or the ‘Love Music Hate Racism – Dorset’ Facebook page.
Related audio: Love Music Hate Racism – Dorchester
