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Celebrating IDAHOBIT in the music industry

Today, Tuesday 17 May, the MU celebrates the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT).

Published: 17 May 2022 | 11:05 AM Updated: 17 May 2022 | 11:52 AM
The pride flag flies against a clear bright blue sky
We need active leadership from government to ensure all LGBTQ+ people can live and work in safety Photo credit: Shutterstock

IDAHOBIT was created to raise awareness about the discrimination, violence and other forms of oppression LGBTQ+ people face around the world and to motivate people to take action.

Making the music industry truly inclusive

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl says: “Change is happening in the music industry, but there is still so much work to do.

“Creating a culture where people have the choice to come out if they want to is an essential step in making the music industry a truly representative and inclusive place to work. Creating that culture means working towards LGBTQ+ inclusion 365 days a year not just on IDAHOBIT or during Pride Month.

“The MU is truly proud of our LGBTQ+ members and LGBTQ+ communities globally who are making change.”

Government action is necessary

The 2022 Rainbow Europe Map and Index revealed that the UK has dropped down the annual ranking of LGBTQ+ rights across Europe for the third year running and is now in fourteenth place.

“It’s disappointing that the UK is regressing in its work towards achieving LGBTQ+ equality. As we approach the 50th anniversary of the first Pride in the UK, we need active leadership from government to ensure all LGBTQ+ people can live and work in safety,” Naomi added.

Resources for LGBT+ members and allies

The union has a range of resource for MU members and allies, including workplace advice and blog posts by LGBT+ members about their experiences in the music industry.

Blog posts you may find useful include:

Workplace advice LGBT+ members may find useful include:

Actions and resources that allies may find useful include:

The MU will be hosting its next LGBT+ Members Network meeting on 24 May 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, if you would like to join the meeting contact equalities@theMU.org

Find out more and join the network in our LGBT+ musicians hub.

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