skip to main content

Hate Crime Statistics Point Towards Need to Rebuild Communities not Divide Them Further

Following the release of hate crime statistics which show how England and Wales are continuing to become less safe for LGBTQ+ people, the MU points out how dangerous the anti trans narratives being peddled by the UK Government continue to be.

Published: 05 October 2023 | 3:28 PM Updated: 10 October 2023 | 5:31 PM
Members of the MU pose joyfully at the 2023 parade in London, with a sign reading Musicians' Union
The Government have taken every opportunity to attack trans people and “woke ideology” in an effort to distract from its many, many failures. Photo credit: Musicians’ Union

The MU is disgusted by the rampant transphobia that has dominated the recent Conservative Party Conference. Dangerous anti trans narratives and policies on gender and trans issues that will make it harder for trans people to exist in the UK have been peddled out in a bid for electoral gains.

New hate crime statistics released today show that England and Wales are continuing to become less safe for LGBTQ+ people. This includes an 11% rise in transphobic hate crime.

Rebuild communities, don’t divide them further

The Government’s present focus should be on policy that would rebuild our crumbling arts sector, create safe and inclusive workplaces and address the very real situation millions of people in the UK find themselves in, struggling to afford to eat, to heat their homes and keep the lights on because of the cost of living crisis, caused by the conservative government.

Instead, they have taken every opportunity to attack trans people and “woke ideology” in an effort to distract from its many, many failures.

The Government should be focused on rebuilding communities, not dividing them further.

The MU stands with all our trans members and the wider trans community

The MU is committed to working towards trans equality in the workplace, in society and in our union, and stands in solidarity with our trans and non-binary members, a fact reiterated by MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl in relation to the new hate crime stats:

“The continual negative debate about trans people is having a direct impact on an already marginalised community.

“Trans people face significant barriers in the music industry and beyond, the constant portrayal of trans people as a dangerous or deceptive is making the situation worse. We cannot allow this narrative to continue.

“The MU stands with all our trans members and the wider trans community, and will continue to challenge transphobia wherever it exists”

Get support as an LGBT+ musician with MU membership

Becoming an MU member means that you are making an impact on issues such as lobbying for LGBT+ inclusive education, ending abuse to LGBT+ people internationally, and the fair and equal representation of all musicians.

Explore our member services

Join the MU

Get support as an LGBT+ musician with MU membership

Continue reading

Daniel stood against a tree at sunset, holding a flute, with a forest and lake in the background.

How I Use AI as a Professional Musician — and Why I’m Still Cautious

In this honest and informative blog, composer, post-production specialist, tutor, flautist, and MU member Daniel Finch explores how musicians are using AI in their work—sharing insights from his own research and outlining the potential benefits, risks, and ethical challenges.

Published: 27 May 2025

Read more about How I Use AI as a Professional Musician — and Why I’m Still Cautious
Birdseye view of feet staring down at an EU flag on the ground, representing a border.

EU-UK Summit: Early Outcomes and What it Means for MU Members

The MU welcomes early signs of progress on cultural mobility at the first EU-UK Summit, including youth mobility and faster border access, but calls for further action to ensure musicians are properly supported in post-Brexit negotiations.

Published: 21 May 2025

Read more about EU-UK Summit: Early Outcomes and What it Means for MU Members
A hand pressing an online vote button.

Vote in the MU Delegate Election 2025

Members in Scotland & Northern Ireland, Wales & South West England and North Of England regions have the chance to vote in the online ballot for who represents their region at Delegate Conference 2025.

Published: 21 May 2025

Read more about Vote in the MU Delegate Election 2025