The Anti-Racist Folk Music Pledge

We, the undersigned, pledge to actively seek opportunities to learn about the history of the music we play and listen to. 

Additionally, those of us who are white/non-BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) commit to: 

• Engaging in this learning without placing the burden of education on BIPOC individuals and/or BIPOC-led organizations. 
• Discontinuing casual/entertainment-style playing of songs with known racist histories. 
• Discontinuing casual/entertainment-style listening to songs with known racist histories. 

We understand that there may be contexts in which songs with racist histories can be played (with caution, intention, and acknowledgment) and learned from and we do not advocate any erasure of history. What we advocate is that white musicians and listeners not engage in casual (i.e. for entertainment) listening to or playing of songs whose history involves harm to BIPOC. 

We understand that there may be future situations that some of us may interpret differently than others. In those situations we will strive to choose the path that causes least harm and hurt to others. 

We know: 

• That when white people ignore racism, the effect of that racism on BIPOC can be amplified.
• That we do not want to participate in anything that amplifies racism.

We hope:

• That others can join us in taking this pledge.
• That we can be ready to engage in learning, however uncomfortable it may be.
• That the folk music community can work together to advance justice and fight racism.