Adonis Club Statement Regarding Reported Legal Action
London queer party Adonis and its founder Shay Malt have recently addressed a reported legal action taken against the club night concerning an alleged ‘anti-Zionism policy’.
Retraction of Controversial Post
Adonis released a statement on Saturday, September 14, clarifying that they have retracted a post that briefly appeared online, stating “no Zionists”. The club described this as a hasty response to the ongoing social media abuse, attacks, and death threats they have been facing.
Legal Action and Response
Following the publication of this post, a Jewish News report highlighted that the licence holders of London nightclub The Cause, a venue where Adonis frequently hosted parties, faced legal action. The Campaign Against Antisemitism sent a legal letter to the co-directors of DL Food and Drink Limited, the licensee for The Cause, citing a 2023 poll indicating that a majority of British Jews identify as Zionist.
The Campaign Against Antisemitism emphasized the importance of not excluding Jews or any other minority groups in the arts and vowed to take action against any discrimination.
Adonis’ Response and Inclusive Values
Adonis has clarified that they never implemented any such discriminatory policy and have always upheld inclusive values, ensuring that no one is denied entry based on their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. The club reiterated its commitment to welcoming people from all backgrounds.
Adonis pointed to an earlier statement in August, where they detailed being targeted by a smear campaign after expressing support for Palestine, resulting in online hostility. Despite this, they affirmed their openness to all individuals, irrespective of their ethnic or racial background.
Support for Palestinian Justice
While acknowledging the potential controversy of their stance, Adonis reiterated their support for Palestinian justice, citing their opposition to oppression in all forms. They emphasized their solidarity with marginalized communities and their condemnation of discriminatory practices.
Current Status and Future Events
DL Food and Drink Limited, in response to inquiries from Jewish News, mentioned conducting an internal review and reaffirmed The Cause’s stance against racism and hate. A scheduled Adonis event at The Cause in September did not proceed as planned.
Looking ahead, Adonis has upcoming parties scheduled for October, November, and December, now relocated under the banner of “Adonis 2.0. New Location”. The club has parted ways with The Cause, indicating a shift in venue for their future events.
Mixmag has sought comment from The Cause on these developments.
Adonis Club Statement
Read Adonis’ full statements below.
FAQs
Q: Has Adonis implemented an ‘anti-Zionism policy’?
A: Adonis clarified that no such policy has been put into place and that they do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other protected characteristics.
Q: What was the response to the legal action taken against The Cause?
A: The Campaign Against Antisemitism took action in response to the reported post by Adonis, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in the arts and advocating against discrimination.
Credit: mixmag.net
