Discussion with Martin Speake

We were delighted to welcome the distinguished composer, musician and educator Martin Speake onto‘That's Debatable!’ this week. Back in February 2024, Martin questioned new ‘anti-racist’ policies at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance (TL), his employer for 22 years. As reported in The Times earlier this month, the woke mob then came for him with full force. While TL publicly distanced itself from him, Martin faced widespread professional ostracisation. Students boycotted his classes, concerts were cancelled, collaborations were dissolved, bands refused to play his compositions and the release of his new album was shelved. Eventually, this Orwellian un-personing took its toll, costing him his job. Martin has now filed legal claims against TL for discrimination and harassment under the Equality Act 2010, as well as for constructive dismissal. During our discussion, Martin walks us through what happened and explains the personal impact his cancellation has had and continues to have on him. Viewers and listeners can donate here to stand with Martin in his fight for justice; you can also hear Martin’s music on his YouTube channel. ‘That's Debatable!’  is edited by Jason Clift.