The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) has backtracked on a controversial decision to suspend three key categories from the 2025 Juno Awards, following a wave of criticism from artists, industry insiders, and public figures. Initially, CARAS announced that the Reggae recording, Christian/gospel album, and children’s album categories would be placed on hiatus, sparking outrage across the Canadian music community, particularly from Black artists who dominate the reggae and gospel genres. After fierce backlash, CARAS reversed its decision on September 17, ensuring that these categories will remain part of the upcoming awards show.
The reggae recording category, a staple of the Junos since 1985, became a flashpoint in the debate. Artists like Jason Wilson, a past Juno nominee, condemned the move, saying it “could only ring alarms of racism.” He added, “While the Junos might be saying the right things about inclusion, in the very same breath, they’re ditching reggae and gospel. How can this be reconciled?” The reggae community, which has long championed the category as a recognition of its cultural impact in Canada, felt blindsided by CARAS’ lack of consultation.
Public figures, including federal MP Michael Coteau, joined the chorus of dissent, urging CARAS to “revisit this really bad decision.” The rapid reversal by CARAS came as a relief to many, though it highlighted deeper concerns about representation and inclusion at the Junos. As Dalton Higgins, a publicist and cultural commentator, noted, “To not engage the Jamaican community or the broader Caribbean community in a healthy two-way dialogue felt like we were taking 20 steps backwards.”
CARAS President Allan Reid acknowledged the concerns in a public statement, attributing the decision to ongoing feedback from the community. “We will not put these categories on hiatus this year,” Reid stated, as he promised more transparency moving forward. The incident underscores the importance of engaging with diverse musical communities in a country that prides itself on multiculturalism, and it sets the stage for a closely watched 2025 Juno Awards.
