'Do I have to turn this gig down?': Female DJs describe harassment behind the decks
Female DJs are speaking out about persistent harassment, misogyny, and intimidation they face while performing in nightlife venues. They report being treated as guests rather than professionals, often facing unwanted interference with their equipment and derogatory online abuse.
Why it matters
This highlights ongoing gender-based discrimination in the entertainment industry and the need for safer, more inclusive professional environments for women.
Image source, Megan Hill Image caption, Andrea Shearer was harassed by a man on Facebook
Female DJs have described experiencing "blatant misogyny", harassment and intimidation while performing and said women are often treated as "guests" rather than professionals behind the decks.
Anna McAteer, Andrea Shearer and Julie Dunne have all spoken about experiences ranging from unwanted interference with equipment and inappropriate comments to physical intimidation.
They said the problem reflects wider attitudes towards women working in nightlife, rather than being the fault of the venues and promoters themselves.
Shearer said she had "never really seen it happen to a male colleague".
"I just still think that there's a bit of an attitude that women are somehow guests in the space rather than DJs that have earned their place there," she said.
"Whereas whenever it comes to a man in the booth, it's just not even a question."
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