Music industry professionals from across the UK have signed an open letter in solidarity with the trans, non-binary, and intersex communities following April’s Supreme Court ruling.
The letter, which has so far garnered signatures from artists including Olly Alexander, Rina Sawayama, Babymorocco, Shygirl, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Nieve Ella, Paloma Faith, Lava La Rue, Bambie Thug, Faris Badwan, salute, Chloe Qisha, Mae Muller, Leigh-Anne, JADE, Perrie, Kele Okereke, Walt Disco, Mura Masa, Self Esteem, Jessie Ware, Mabel, Caity Baser and loads more, calls for the industry to protect trans, non-binary, and intersex colleagues from discrimination in all areas, from studios to festivals.
The signatories express concern about the Supreme Court’s ruling that defines ‘woman’ by biological sex. The letter explains: “We believe this ruling not only undermines the lived reality and threatens the safety of trans, non-binary, and intersex people living in the UK but also weakens legal protections at a time when trans people face rising hate crime, discrimination, and systemic barriers.”
It continues, “The Equalities & Human Rights Commission’s interim update on the ruling suggests that trans women are not permitted access to women’s facilities and trans men are not permitted access to men’s facilities, while further suggesting that trans people may also be excluded from using facilities that correspond to their sex assigned at birth. We believe this guidance exposes trans people to embarrassment and harassment, ultimately excluding and seeking to erase them from participation in public life.
“We stand with the many voices who have condemned both the ruling and the EHRC guidance, highlighting the negative consequences that both will have for all individuals and the particular harm that trans, non-binary, and intersex people face as a result.
“We commend organisations within the music industry who have already voiced their support for the trans community and call upon further influential companies and organisations, including but not exclusive to, Major and Independent Record Labels, Publishers, Music Management Companies, Live Agencies, Promoters, The MMF, UK Music, the Musicians’ Union, PRS for Music, PPL, AIM, BPI and beyond to join us in condemning the Supreme Court ruling. We urge them to use their power within the industry and public platforms to make meaningful commitments to protecting trans, non-binary, and intersex members, talent, and staff from discrimination within their respective organisations.
“Music has the power to unite, to inspire, and to reflect the richness of the human experience. This is our moment to amplify voices that need to be heard, to champion inclusivity and real justice, and to ensure that our industry remains a welcoming and trailblazing space for everyone. Let us stand on the side of truth, equality, and respect.”
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