JUNO Awards Reverse Decision to Remove Reggae and Gospel Categories from 2025 Ceremony

Toronto, Canada – The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) has reversed its controversial decision to eliminate several categories, including reggae and Christian/gospel, from the 2025 JUNO Awards. This decision comes after strong backlash from musicians, community leaders, and elected officials.

The original plan to put four categories, including children’s music and international album of the year, on “hiatus” for the 2025 ceremony led to widespread criticism. Many saw the move as undermining cultural representation, particularly within communities that have deep ties to reggae and gospel music.

Michael Coteau, Member of Parliament for Don Valley East and former Ontario Minister of Culture, expressed concern over the initial decision. In a statement, Coteau emphasized the significance of these music genres, particularly in cities like Toronto, which have rich Caribbean and gospel traditions. Toronto Councillor Josh Matlow also voiced his disapproval, highlighting the importance of reggae music in his Little Jamaica constituency. Matlow emphasized that reggae has long been a pillar of the neighborhood’s cultural identity.

Thank you @JoshMatlow⁩ for your advocacy. We did it!

“Michael Coteau, member of Parliament for Don Valley East and the former Ontario minister of Culture, and Toronto Councillor Josh Matlow also weighed in on decision this week.” @TheJUNOAwards⁩
https://t.co/viZnDNtwFB

— Michael Coteau (@coteau) September 17, 2024

The decision to reverse course was announced by Allan Reid, president and CEO of the JUNO Awards and CARAS, who acknowledged the concerns raised by the community. Reid stated that CARAS would reinstate three of the four categories initially slated for removal, a decision welcomed by many as a necessary step toward preserving the awards’ inclusivity.

While the fate of the international album of the year category remains uncertain, CARAS plans to release an official update on all category changes by September 23, 2024.

Vision Newspaper will continue to follow this story as further details unfold.

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