The MU will be attending various pride marches over the summer with our LGBTQ+ members and allies. Image credit: © The MU.
IDAHOBIT is celebrated annually on 17 May. It is a global initiative that aims to raise awareness about discrimination, violence, and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
This year, we reaffirm our support of and solidarity towards trans, nonbinary and intersex musicians, music industry professionals and trade unionists.
Everyone has a right to live and work free from discrimination and harm
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) describes this year’s theme “The Power of Communities” as a call to reflect on the pluralistic and intersectional backgrounds, identities and experiences of LGBTQIA+ communities. The theme recognises the role of collective solidarity in supporting human rights and liberation – which resonates deeply with us as a trade union and our history of collectivism towards change.
Naomi Pohl, MU General Secretary, reflects: "It’s a difficult environment for trans people in particular right now, and we want trans musicians and music industry professionals to know that the MU stands with you.
“As a union movement, we recognise everyone’s right to live and work free from discrimination and harm, and it will take collective solidarity across the music industry community to help ensure this for musicians and others working in music.”
Ensuring the voices of LGBT+ members are heard
Since this time last year, when we shared findings from the the Musicians’ Census LGBTQ+ Insight Report, we have used this data to raise motions to the TUC and STUC to address inequalities faced by LGBTQ+ musicians, and held discussions within the music industry on safety on tour and while gigging internationally at WOMEX and I Know a Place, working with our partners Come Play With Me.
The MU will also be attending various pride marches over the summer with our LGBTQ+ members and allies. Look out for more details of how to register coming soon.
MU members can also join our LGBT+ Member Network, a space where people with shared identities can connect, network and make positive change across the MU and the music industry. The network ensures that the voices of LGBT+ members are heard, and that opportunities for activism and leadership are created.