fauxfreemagazine
On the 18th and 19th of September, Cambridge will see the first festival to commit to a '50:50 For Equality' pledge in partnership with not-for-profit organisation GIRLS I RATE (GIR). Strawberries & Creem Festival will feature an equal gender balance in its line-up, making a renewed commitment to strive for equality within the music industry and to ensure diversity within their programme and staff.
Carla Marie Williams, GIR Founder: "Every year we see a disproportionate number of men being announced on festival line-ups, and change has been happening very slowly."
But it’s not just the festival promoters supporting this initiative. Artists performing at S&C have signed the pledge too, including singer/songwriter Miraa May, renowned rap tastemaker & radio host Kenny Allstar, and DJ/producer Cuppy. Girls I Rate's own all-female DJ collective will also be present at Strawberries & Creem this year.
Since 2016, GIR has been at the forefront of actively making changes in the industry, creating opportunities for women and celebrating those that often don't get the recognition they deserve. The GIR 50:50 Pledge demands immediate change in the music and events/festivals spaces, as well as supporting the objectives of Keychange, a movement supported by Creative Europe to champion and support women and gender minorities in the music industry. GIR looks to garner signatures and active support from across the music industry – including festivals, radio stations, artists, and global brands. All signatures acquired by Girls I Rate & Keychange will be collated in 2024 to show tangible progress across the industry.
We think this one will be one not to be missed! The line-up, the initiative and the good vibes will ensure that it's a unique experience for everyone as well as hopefully inspiring future festivals to take note.
Get your tickets for Strawberries & Creem quick here before they sell out and check out their playlist below.