ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — Roanoke’s “Battle of the DJs” event has been canceled for Saturday after coming under fire in the community due to concerns about the lack of representation and inclusion.
People took to Facebook to say the DJs selected for the event didn’t represent the northwest Roanoke community. The organizers of the event, Roanoke Parks and Recreation (PLAY Roanoke), say they realized they missed the mark after seeing the criticism.
The event was supposed to be held on Saturday, Jan. 29 in the Melrose and Rugby area, which is a predominantly Black neighborhood.
Michael Clark, the director of PLAY Roanoke, says the representation of the DJs was not reflective of the neighborhood in which the event was being held.
The original plan was to provide a safe and free event for the community.
PLAY Roanoke’s Facebook page received comments from people questioning why DJs weren’t recruited from Star City DJs, which showcases more of the city’s diversity.
The event has been rescheduled to take place this spring.
