A broader point - one of the people that got me involved in folk was a dear friend of Goan/Ugandan heritage. Together, we curated a series of gigs that reactivated Cecil Sharp House as a prominent London concert venue; and also put our savings into making a documentary about Shirley Collins.

One of the most inspirational people I've met in folk this year was folk dance instructor Andrea Queens (at EFDSS's folk educators day in February).

I can confidently assert that both would be not only mortified but really hurt and probably confused/angry about even confidently writing those words, never mind claiming the 'right' to sing them.

These are just two examples of the many non-white people making a considerable contribution to traditional music in the UK. To me, it seems not only inappropriate and unkind to create an environment which makes an important resource like Mudcat unwelcoming; it's self-defeating to any seeking to keep the tradition as vibrant and active as possible.