FSU member Martin Speake is a distinguished composer, saxophonist, and educator.
Martin has dedicated more than 50 years to understanding and applying the art of jazz, and has inspired generations of musicians. His belief in the equality and dignity of all human beings has driven several public interventions over the years, from protesting against the National Front in 1977 to co-organizing ‘Long Tones for Peace’ at London’s Union Chapel.
However, Martin’s career took a devastating turn in March 2024.
Responding to a request for feedback on ‘anti-racism’ policies at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance (TL), where he taught for 22 years, Martin shared opinions on systemic inequality within the UK jazz scene which flowed from his academic competence and expertise. He shared his belief that Critical Race Theory (CRT) is divisive and called for open dialogue. Quoting Martin Luther King Jr., he emphasised the importance of judging people “not by the colour of their skin, but by the content of their character”.
An eminently reasonable intervention, you might think – not least since the recent Employment Tribunal ruling in the case of another FSU member, Sean Corby, determinedthat opposition to CRT constitutes a protected philosophical belief under the Equality Act 2010 (‘EqA’).
And yet, the email attracted significant discontent within the study body. Instead of defending Martin’s right to hold ‘colour-blind’ beliefs in the face of illiberal innuendo, TL halted his teaching and pressured him to consent to the circulation of the email to the entire jazz department. Inevitably, this sparked more backlash from activist students.
TL then publicly distanced itself from him and threatened disciplinary action.
At which point, the pile-on intensified. He faced widespread professional ostracisation. Students boycotted his classes. Concerts were cancelled. Collaborations dissolved. Bands refused to play his compositions. The release of his new album was shelved.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the emotional toll of this attempted un-personing forced him to take extended sick leave.
Upon returning to work, Martin found no improvement. Harassment persisted, and his working environment became unbearable, forcing him to resign in November 2024.
With the FSU’s help, Martin has now filed legal claims against TL for discrimination and harassment under the EqA, as well as for constructive dismissal.
This case is not just about personal justice – it’s about safeguarding freedom of expression for academics and artists everywhere. Higher education institutions must not suppress legitimate beliefs.
Your support can help Martin hold TL accountable and pave the way for change. Please donate here to stand with Martin in his fight for justice and freedom of expression.
