Insomniac Events’ Controversial Move: Attempting to Trademark “PLUR”

In the world of electronic dance music (EDM) culture, “PLUR” has become a mantra, an emblematic symbol of unity, love, respect, and acceptance. Short for “Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect,” PLUR has been embraced by ravers and festival-goers worldwide, transcending borders and cultural barriers. However, a controversial development arose when Insomniac Events, a prominent event production company, attempted to trademark this cherished term. This move sparked heated debates and discussions within the EDM community about the commercialization and potential co-opting of a deeply meaningful concept.

The Significance of PLUR in EDM Culture

PLUR is more than just an acronym; it represents the core values that underpin the EDM community. Originating from the early ’90s rave scene, the concept was meant to foster an inclusive and positive environment where attendees could escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse themselves in the power of music and connection.

The four pillars of PLUR are:

Peace: Encouraging conflict resolution and promoting a harmonious atmosphere at events.
Love: Celebrating the universal language of love and compassion among individuals.
Unity: Emphasizing the collective experience and the sense of togetherness that transcends differences.
Respect: Valuing one another’s boundaries, beliefs, and identities to create a safe and welcoming space.
Insomniac Events and Its Influence in the EDM Scene

Insomniac Events, founded by Pasquale Rotella, has emerged as one of the leading event production companies in the EDM industry. Known for organizing massive music festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) and Beyond Wonderland, Insomniac has played a pivotal role in shaping the contemporary electronic music landscape.

The company’s events have often been associated with a strong PLUR ethos, fostering a sense of community and connectivity among attendees. Many rave enthusiasts have lauded Insomniac for creating transformative experiences that embody the essence of PLUR.

The Trademark Controversy

In 2023, Insomniac Events filed a trademark application for “PLUR” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This attempt to secure exclusive rights over the term raised eyebrows and triggered a backlash from the EDM community.

Critics argued that trademarking “PLUR” would commodify a principle that should remain free and accessible to all. They expressed concern that such an action might undermine the grassroots nature of the PLUR movement and potentially restrict the use of the term for charitable, community-oriented, and non-commercial purposes.

Supporters of the trademark, on the other hand, contended that Insomniac’s intent might be to protect the concept of PLUR from being misused or exploited by unscrupulous entities. They cited examples of unauthorized merchandise and events leveraging the PLUR association for profit without contributing positively to the community.

Insomniac’s Response

In the wake of the controversy, Pasquale Rotella released a statement clarifying Insomniac Events’ intentions. He asserted that their aim was not to monopolize or restrict the use of “PLUR” but rather to safeguard it from commercial exploitation. Rotella emphasized that the trademark application was meant to prevent opportunistic ventures from capitalizing on the concept without genuinely embracing its core values.

He further stated that Insomniac intended to develop guidelines for responsible usage of the term under the trademark, allowing others to continue promoting PLUR’s principles while discouraging its misuse for profit-driven motives.

The Impact on the EDM Community

Despite Rotella’s reassurances, the attempted trademark application sparked significant debates and anxieties within the EDM community. Many questioned whether a trademark could genuinely protect the essence of PLUR, fearing that it might inadvertently discourage organic and diverse expressions of the concept.

The EDM community’s identity has long relied on a sense of freedom and inclusivity, with PLUR serving as a unifying force. The trademark debate raised concerns that the association of PLUR with a single corporate entity could alter its fundamental nature and turn it into a brand rather than a shared ethos.

The attempted trademarking of “PLUR” by Insomniac Events has brought to light complex and contentious issues within the EDM community. While the company claims its intention is to protect the core values of PLUR, the prospect of a corporate entity owning a concept so deeply intertwined with the community raises valid concerns.

As the discussions continue, it is crucial for all stakeholders, including event organizers, artists, and fans, to engage in an open dialogue to find a resolution that respects the heritage of PLUR while addressing legitimate worries about exploitation. In the end, preserving the spirit of Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect should remain the collective responsibility of the entire EDM community, safeguarding it as a beacon of positive energy and inclusivity for generations to come.