Sign Our Open Letter
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To the Department of Digital, Culture, Media & Sport,
Since 2013 Brighter Sound has been working towards a fairer and more equal music industry for women and people of marginalised genders. This includes everybody who experiences misogyny and cissexism, inclusive of all trans and non-binary identities, all backgrounds, social classes, bodies, races, ethnicities or abilities. Over the last 5 years of our research-led gender equality programme Both Sides Now we’ve seen a huge amount of change and development. But we also recognise there is a long way to go, especially for those with intersectional barriers.
Through this work we have crowdsourced an in-depth manifesto that outlines five specific areas in which we want to see the music sector change. We are asking organisations of all sizes to make commitments based on these recommendations. However we know that strong legislation is an important catalyst for change and can support the industry itself to develop better practises, be more inclusive and lead the way in pioneering new practises and policies around gender equality.
Within the five areas of our manifesto we have identified specific legislative action that will help instigate long-term and meaningful change within the music industry and beyond. We want to see you support our work and connect with the industry in the following ways:
Education: The creation of a decolonised, representative and relatable music curriculum which includes strong role models from all genders and backgrounds across a wide range of music genres, instruments and music sector roles.
Talent Development: Open and clear consultation with music organisations of all sizes across the country, to define strategies for inclusive long-term change and support. This includes showcasing, supporting and celebrating a broad range of performers as role models from across the music landscape, supporting health and wellbeing, body positivity and building communities of gender diverse musicians.
Live Music: Industry-wide Codes of Practice introduced as a statutory requirement for live music licensing to protect and support those who are under-represented and those who have intersectional needs.
Parenthood: Create guidance for smarter, more flexible and responsive ways of working for parents and backed by strong legislation and consistent implementation. Collaborate with industry networks, campaign groups, local authorities to explore progressive approaches and legislation that will support combining the unique demands of creative careers with caring responsibilities.
Leadership: Accountability for all music organisations to present data on gender diversity within senior positions and reveal strategies for tackling issues of under-representation.
We want to see a more inclusive, equitable and successful music industry for all. Now is the time to be transformative for current and future generations. We hope you will support us to make this happen.
Signed by
Brighter Sound