Internet radio station Radar Radio has suspended its broadcast indefinitely following an allegation of sexual harassment from a former employee. There has subsequently been a mass exodus of DJs from the station, which based in east London.
The first allegation of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior from members of staff came from former producer Ashtart Al-Hurra. In an April 13 blog post she wrote that she was harassed “fucking tonnes by dickhead DJ dudes” during her time at the station. She also alleged that she was made to sign a confidentiality form by HR.
Al-Hurra told her story following a statement from Pxssy Palace, a queer WOC feminist DJ collective who exited Radar earlier this month. In their departing statement they claimed to have been victims of tokenism and oppression by Radar.
Radar responded to that allegation with their own statement: “We were very concerned and disappointed to see the statement from Pxssy Palace suggesting that we are getting some important aspects wrong.” They claimed to “have taken immediate action to review and assess any shortcomings with the input of all Radar staff, especially those who are female, LGBTQI+ and POC.”
On April 16 Radar ceased all broadcasting and released a statement on saying it will remain off air “until we are in a position to address the recent commentary around aspects of the station.”
We have made the decision to suspend broadcasting until we are in a position to address the recent commentary around aspects of the station.
— Radar Radio (@RadarRadioLDN) April 16, 2018
This followed a mass exodus of DJs and presenters in solidarity with Al-Hurra. At the time of writing more than 70 of the stations many DJs have announced their departure.
I am deeply saddened by the recent news regarding Radar Radio. Unfortunately, due to these views being so far removed from my own, this has left me with no choice but to step down as host of the breakfast show. I would like to thank all my listeners and every single guest.
— snoochie shy (@snoochieshy) April 16, 2018
In light of the recent news about Radar Radio, I can no longer continue my show and I’m leaving the station with immediate effect.
— ikonika (@ikonika) April 16, 2018
Due to the news that has come to light today regarding Radar Radio, I have decided to leave the station.
— Conducta (@ConductaUK) April 16, 2018
In light of everything transpiring publicly and speaking to those close who have and will be affected by it all, I’ve decided I will no longer be broadcasting from Radar Radio.
— Human (@RalphHardy) April 16, 2018
Respect to those that have been apart of the journey thus far.
The @nightslugs show was taking a hiatus anyway but j to say ill be continuing my b2b podcast independently of Radar
— Bok (@bok_bok) April 16, 2018
RE: Radar Radio
— THE SLUMFLOWER (@theslumflower) April 16, 2018
It’s with great disappointment to announce that I’ll be leaving Radar Radio, where I record my monthly podcast.
I do not condone what’s surfaced regarding the mistreatment of Black Women at Radar Radio.
My past shows will still be online for you to listen back.
The FADER has contacted Radar Radio for comment.