The phrase "There’s a Diddy style system in Quebec too" by international producer Peezee denounces the Quebec music industry, similar to the Sean "Diddy" Combs scandal in the US.
But affirmative comments raise big questions.
This statement raises questions about the culture of the music industry in Quebec, particularly with respect to the handling of sexual misconduct allegations.
Four years after the wave of denunciations: where are the actions ?
Four years after the wave of denunciations in the cultural sector, it is necessary to draw up a balance sheet. What has really changed? What remains to be done to make this sector healthier?
From Guy Cloutier to Jean-François Harrison, from Joël Legendre to Maybe Watson and the nine educators at the Cité-des-Prairies rehabilitation centre, Quebec is not done with its troubles. It was as if a dam had broken, releasing a flood of truths held too long.
Some artists, including Freddy Gruesum, known for the Word Up Battle, have recently made a release that does not bode well. .
Let us hope that when we read these publications, we do not see a serious complaint. There is a need for a lot of question and answer times on the culture of trivialization of such allegations.
Nearly a decade ago, the words of Monk.E were shocking and have been trivialized by the industry.
It must be understood that such words are legally considered defamation if the claims are not substantiated.
Maybe Watson, former member of the group Alaclair Ensemble
Let’s go back to the case involving Maybe Watson, former member of the group Alaclair Ensemble, which is particularly relevant.
In July 2020, Maybe Watson was kicked out of the group after allegations of sexual misconduct emerged. The group announced this decision via a Facebook post, calling the story about Maybe Watson “unacceptable,” in the wake of the #MeToo denunciations.
He expressed his intention to withdraw from the public scene and undergo therapy to address his problematic behaviours. It should be noted that he was not the subject of any prosecution and that the acts for which he is accused were not officially disclosed.
Was the victim paid by the former Maybe Watson label or someone else for his silence?
The problem in itself is transparency of those involved, which raises major and entirely legitimate questions from the public.
Implications for the Quebec music industry
Artists involved in such cases often see their careers collapse, with tour cancellations and loss of partnerships.
Labels must decide whether to maintain their association with the artists or distance themselves, which is an economic and ethical dilemma. These incidents highlight the need for cultural reform within the industry to prevent abuse and promote a safer and more equitable environment for all artists.
Power relations, which are omnipresent in the cultural environment, sometimes make it difficult to denounce. For precarious workers, testifying can mean losing future opportunities.
The road to real change is still fraught with obstacles. Thus, the Peezee statement highlights the persistent challenges related to sexual misconduct in the Quebec artistic community, prompting reflection on the measures needed to improve the situation.
Despite the progress, the culture of silence remains a heavy weight. Many are still reluctant to come forward, for fear of reprisals or not being believed. Careers are at stake, and some environments remain unaffected by criticism.
Four years after the wave of denunciations, the cultural environment is at a turning point. While significant progress has been made, some problems seem to persist, reminding us that change takes time and collective will.