George Floyd protests: BBC Radio 1Xtra hosts day of programming dedicated to 'black empowerment'

Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts on the protests

BBC Radio 1Xtra will honour “Blackout Tuesday” with a day of music and programmes dedicated to discussing the Black Lives Matter protests across the US.

On Tuesday (2 June), the network, which traditionally plays black music, will feature a playlist focussed on “black empowerment, pride and identity” curated by Dotty, Yasmin Evans and Mista Jam, following the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after a police officer knelt on his neck.

1Xtra will air an extended special of 1Xtra Talks, which will see Seani B and DJ Ace discuss the events surrounding Floyd’s death, the protests in the US and wider race issues, with listeners encouraged to call in and share their own views.

Speaking about the show, DJ Ace said: “This is a conversation that is long overdue. It’s sad that it’s taken recent events to make it happen but I’m more than ready to help facilitate a platform for dialogue, a chance to vent pain and frustration and hopefully a catalyst to spark some change.”

The BBC has said that all DJs across its music stations The BBC said all DJs across its pop music stations “will be supported should they wish to use the day to focus on their community” and that “all individual views across the stations will be respected”.

Some of the leading names in the music industry are currently taking part in “Blackout Tuesday”, pledging to take “a day to disconnect from work and reconnect with our community” using the hashtag: “#THESHOWMUSTBEPAUSED.”