A major dispute over the future of the East Coast Music Awards (ECMA) threatens the organization’s stability, according to board chairperson Michelle Eagles. In an interview with The Canadian Press, Eagles acknowledged the ongoing tensions while assuring that efforts are underway to rebuild trust with members ahead of the May event.
“I’ll be blunt — it is putting us at risk right now for our future,” Eagles stated from St. John’s.
Concerns have intensified since the ECMA board removed CEO Blanche Israël in January, a decision that sparked calls for greater transparency. The controversy dates back to last fall when founding director Sheri Jones launched a petition accusing Israël of making unilateral changes to the awards process without board approval. The petition gained over 600 signatures, ultimately leading to Israël’s dismissal.
Many ECMA members voiced opposition to Israël’s removal, arguing she had been instrumental in fostering diversity and inclusivity. In response, several artists, including top nominee Jeremy Dutcher, withdrew from this year’s event in protest. Dutcher emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “It’s important for us as artists to speak together and start to ask questions of an organization that purports to support and speak for us.”
Eagles acknowledged the frustration among musicians, confirming that six nominees had withdrawn as of Friday. She emphasized the board’s commitment to addressing concerns, promising more transparency in the coming weeks following an internal meeting.
“It is very unfortunate that we are in this position where people feel that this is their option,” Eagles said, adding that she hopes to improve communication regarding Israël’s dismissal and the ECMA’s strategic direction.
Looking ahead, the ECMA plans to hold in-person sessions, distribute surveys, and engage with members at its annual conference to shape the organization’s future. Eagles, who became board chair in November, is working to develop a long-term strategic plan, with the goal of presenting it at the next general meeting.
“One of the things I believe we should value as an organization is to find a way to make space for every voice,” she said. “I’m hopeful that we will get past this. And I think we will.”
The East Coast Music Awards are set to take place on May 8 as part of a five-day conference in St. John’s.
Source: Swifteradio.com.
