Award-winning rapper Speech Debelle is facing legal action from Arts Council England (ACE) after her allegations of racial discrimination were dismissed by an employment tribunal last year. In an exclusive interview with The Independent, the artist condemned the “vindictive” lawsuit and described it as retaliatory discrimination.
ACE is seeking legal costs of up to £40,000 from Speech Debelle, whose real name is Corynne Elliot, after she brought a claim against the charity for racial discrimination, bullying, and harassment. Despite the tribunal dismissing her claims, ACE is now seeking to recover the money spent on fighting the case.
The rapper, who won the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2009 for her album ‘Speech Therapy’, believes that ACE is trying to punish and make an example of her to deter others from holding them accountable for racism within the organization. She described the case as a “David versus Goliath” battle but remains adamant about fighting back.
An independent review commissioned by the Arts Council in 2023 revealed issues of racism within the organization, with Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse staff facing discrimination that had not been consistently addressed. This case against Speech Debelle is unprecedented for ACE, as they have never sought costs following a tribunal claim before.
Speech Debelle is representing herself in the case and crowdfunding towards legal costs. Despite the financial and emotional toll the case has taken on her, she remains committed to seeking justice and holding ACE accountable for their actions.
In response, an Arts Council England spokesperson stated that the tribunal found the claims against them were dismissed and that they are seeking to recover legal costs based on the judge’s comments on the merits and conduct of the claimant’s case. The spokesperson emphasized their responsibility as custodians of taxpayers’ money and their commitment to upholding professionalism within the organization.