In the wake of the EU referendum, I sit here, an Italian musician in my London flat and contemplate what this means for me. Apart from the ache in my heart, how will this effect my residential status and my working life?
Credit: Charlie Davies
I feel for the millions of Brits who voted against Brexit and all of those who lives will have to change against their wish. Off course I also feel for my fellow Europeans who want to explore all the fruits that the UK has to offer, it's all well and good that nothing will change for the next 2 years.....but then what?
I know for now the future of EU citizens in the UK is still uncertain and I can't say that this thought doesn't churn my stomach. To be clear, It's not just about me, I do worry for all the innocent children that may lose several of their much loved playmates and school friends, will they even understand why their pals are no longer available to play? Because, even though I am sure everyone will not be forced to leave, if rules change and public healthcare for example is no longer available to EU citizens, many may not be able to afford to stay.
What about all the Expats? Brits who have established a fresh life in a friendly EU country....like me, what will happen to them? Again their future is uncertain. If they do not decide to become citizens of the country the currently reside in, will they only be allowed to spend certain periods of time in the EU countries that they enjoy so much? Again could this mean children will be taken from their schools and friends and uprooted and replanted in a different country? Surely not, I believe a fair solution will be found.
What does all this mean for music? Obviously there is no clear forecast of the effect of the EU referendum on the music industry. Although many articles are staying positive and insist that there will still be funds to spread British music across the EU, which I am sure there will be. Signed and funded acts will always have the opportunity to expand there following and bring joy to many a ear. However, I personally can't see how this won't effect the smaller/unsigned acts who wish to tour. Without outside funding many may struggle to tour this once thought cheap land. We have to believe in this time of uncertainty that British music will prevail and that there will be opportunities for Europeans to share their gifts with the UK also - I believe that positivity is the key.
Although there have been many negative aspects to the EU referendum, from my point of view I have seen a few wonderful things happen in the aftermath. We have to appreciate the influx in young people's interest in politics. Previous to this momentous decision, many found politics disinteresting or to have no direct affect on them, we can clearly see these opinions have now dramatically changed.
On the 2nd of July London experienced a truly spectacular event as the city saw some 40,000 protesters march against the UK's decision to leave the EU. There is always beauty to be found in human unity. There was so much beauty to be found in the public's passion to fight for what they believe in and the beauty of the Remain having the opportunity to have their voice heard. It was also stunning to see the amount of people who wanted to reach out the the remaining EU countries and let them know that they wanted to stay a united force and show their love for their fellow human beings.
I plan to stay positive! I have to believe that our governments will come to fair and prosperous agreement and that people and music will still flourish across our 28 countries!
We have to appreciate the humour used too. Let's take a look at some of the signage displayed during the March through London.
Tagged in Giulia