A music event which barred Zionists from entry has been reported to the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

Makaan Records held a held a public music event called “Makaan 6”, at a Steam Room in East London on Saturday 8 June 2024, featuring Saroor, an artist of Sudanese heritage, who “uses music as a tool to fight patriarchal discourses”, and FAEL, who was performing virtually from Algeria.

The advert for the event stated “Key points: No racism, no sexism, no homophobia, no transphobia, No Zioni3sts…”

Several concerned members of the public contacted UKLFI, who were shocked to see the ban.  UKLFI has written to Makaan Records, as well as to the EHRC.

UKLFI’s letters pointed out that the ban on Zionists was illegal, as it was discriminatory, contrary to the Equality Act 2010. Since most Jews and most Israelis are Zionists, it indirectly discriminated against Jews and Israelis.

UKLFI also highlighted the recent case in the Employment Tribunal of Miller v University of Bristol which held that “The claimant’s anti-Zionist beliefs qualified as a philosophical belief and as a protected characteristic pursuant to section 10 Equality Act 2010”.  UKLFI argued that Zionist beliefs would also qualify as a protected characteristic under the Equality Act.

UKLFI has asked Makaan Records to apologise for the upset caused by her racist advertisement and has also asked the EHRC to look into this matter.

Update: 23 August 2026   

On 23 August 2026,  Makaan Records informed UKLFI that the reference to “No Zioni3ts” was removed from publicity for the event following their letter.

A spokesperson for Makaan Records stated in a response to UKLFI on 17 June 2024:   ” I categorically state that neither I nor Makaan 6 hold or promote any racist or antisemitic beliefs. The aim of our event was to create an inclusive and safe space for all participants, free from discrimination and hatred. The inclusion of “NO ZIONI3TS” in our event guidelines was not intended to target or exclude Jewish individuals or to express any form of antisemitism. Rather, it was aimed at ensuring that the event was free from political ideologies that some attendees might find contentious or confrontational.

The intention behind the event’s guidelines was to prevent any political conflict and ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees. It was not to discriminate based on race or religion. Our guidelines explicitly promote an environment free from racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia, and this extends to all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism.”

I understand the sensitivity of this issue and regret any unintended offense caused by the wording of the event guidelines. However, the accusations of racism and antisemitism are unfounded and distressing, particularly as they misrepresent the purpose of our event and my personal beliefs. I strongly oppose all forms of discrimination and harassment, and I have never intended to cause harm or distress to any community.”