skip to main content

MU to Spotlight Harassment and Abuse in Music Industry at TUC LGBT+ Conference 2018

The Musicians’ Union (MU) is delighted to be taking a delegation of Union members to the annual Trades Union Congress (TUC) LGBT+ Conference.

Published: 14 June 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 03 February 2022 | 10:28 AM

The Musicians’ Union (MU) is delighted to be taking a delegation of Union members to the annual Trades Union Congress (TUC) LGBT+ Conference.

Over three days in July, trade union members from across the movement will come together to discuss the big issues affecting LGBT+ workers.

This year, the MU delegation will be putting the focus on harassment and abuse in freelance workplaces.

Freelance workers are particularly vulnerable to harassment and abuse as they often do not feel able to report incidents for fear of losing future or other work.

LGBT+ musicians often face the additional fear of being discriminated against, or of having to come out against their will, when they make a report of this kind.

MU members will be calling on the TUC to help highlight advice and assistance provided by affiliated unions to all of their members suffering harassment or abuse.

Musicians who do face harassment or abuse of any kind are encouraged to contact the Musicians’ Union via confidential report line safespace@theMU.org or via their Regional Office.

Stay up to date with TUC LGBT+ Conference on Twitter, via @WeAreTheMU or the hashtag #TUCLGBT.

To find out more about the Union’s Equalities Committee, and how you can get involved, please email equalities@theMU.org.

Representing and advocating on behalf of LGBT+ musicians

Get involved with the MU's work on lobbying for an LGBT+ inclusive education, the end of abuses to LGBT+ people internationally, and a fair and equal representation.

Join our LGBT+ Member Network

Our network is 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. 

Join our network if you identify as LGBT+.  

Join the LGBT+ Network

Representing and advocating on behalf of LGBT+ musicians

Continue reading

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
The five panellists sat on stage, in purple lighting, with FIM logo behind them.

International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference

Delegates at FIM's International Freelance Conference explored collective bargaining, organising freelance musicians and tackling discrimination, sharing international perspectives on improving working conditions and building a fairer, more inclusive music industry.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action