FAC Insights: Beyond the Binary: The Music Industry's Journey Towards Better Trans Inclusion with Saskhia Menendez
FAC Insights is a forum for us to showcase and share long form pieces looking at various parts of the music industry and the society that shapes it. Pieces take the form of videos, interviews, discussions, articles and more.
This month, we are thrilled to hear from Saskhia Menendez, Global Multi Award Winning Innovator, Researcher, Podcast Host & Artist.
While the music industry has made strides in promoting diversity, the experiences of trans individuals in our industry reveal that challenges still remain. That’s why I’m so excited about the upcoming release of the Trans Charter, an initiative I’ve been developing with the support of various music organisations and the broader trans community. The charter aims to create a more inclusive and fair environment for trans people throughout the UK music scene.
The Trans Charter, set to launch by the end of this year, is designed to support transgender individuals not only in the workplace but also in accessing music industry funding, live events and representation. Working closely with music organisations and receiving invaluable input from the trans community, I’ve aimed to create a charter that’s more than just a document, it’s a practical guide for real change. Although it’s relevant across the creative industries, its potential impact on the music industry is especially significant. The charter’s goal is to ensure that trans people are not just welcomed but are given the same opportunities to thrive in all aspects of the industry.
Key elements of the Trans Charter include promoting visibility and representation, providing education on trans issues to reduce discrimination, and ensuring workplace policies are genuinely inclusive of all gender identities. Importantly, the charter will also help collect data on the current state of trans inclusion in the industry. This data will be crucial for measuring progress and identifying areas where change is needed most. By tracking these metrics, we can effectively target and communicate the changes required.
Trans people in the music industry have historically faced, and continue to face, significant challenges from outright discrimination to more subtle forms of exclusion. Despite our industry’s reputation for embracing what’s unconventional, trans artists and professionals often encounter obstacles that their cisgender peers don’t. This can include being misgendered, lacking access to gender-neutral facilities, or simply not receiving the support they need.
Additionally, trans individuals frequently encounter barriers when it comes to accessing funding and other resources essential for career development. The lack of representation and support can limit opportunities to secure grants, sponsorships, and other forms of financial backing. This underrepresentation also extends to key industry roles, particularly in leadership positions. The absence of trans voices in decision-making processes keeps a cycle of exclusion going, where the needs and perspectives of the trans community are either overlooked or misunderstood. This is why the Trans Charter is so crucial it’s designed to elevate these voices and ensure they’re integral to shaping the future of our industry.
As we approach the release of the Trans Charter, I’m confident it has the potential to make a real difference in the UK music industry. Already, a number of organisations have expressed their support for the charter, which I am extremely pleased about. I am hoping that major labels, independent record companies, management companies, industry bodies and organisations adopt its principles, committing to creating a safer and more supportive environment for trans people.
One of the most exciting changes I anticipate is greater visibility for trans artists and music industry professionals. With more organisations backing the charter, I am hoping to see an increased focus on showcasing trans talent, both on stage and behind the scenes. This visibility is crucial not just for the careers of trans individuals but also for challenging stereotypes and broadening the public’s understanding of gender diversity. The charter will also lead to the development of educational initiatives aimed at improving understanding of trans issues within the industry. Training programmes, workshops, sandpits and resources will be key in helping employees, artists, and executives learn how to support their trans colleagues effectively. These efforts are essential in fostering a culture of respect and acceptance, where everyone can thrive without fear of discrimination or harassment.
Also by collecting and analysing data on trans inclusion, the charter will help us pinpoint specific areas that need improvement and measure the effectiveness of the changes implemented. This data-driven approach will be crucial in addressing disparities in access to funding and representation. It will enable us to ensure that resources are allocated more equitably and that trans individuals have a fair chance to succeed in all areas of the music industry.
True inclusivity in the music industry means more than just adopting these principles, it requires us to put them into action collectively. One area where I believe we need to focus is on getting more trans people into leadership roles. For lasting change, we need trans voices to be part of decision-making at all levels of the industry. It’s not just about making sure the trans community is heard, it's also about empowering us to help steer the direction of our industry. We also need to consider the intersectionality of trans identities. Trans people who are part of other marginalised groups, such as people of colour or those with disabilities, often face additional challenges. Our industry must take an intersectional approach to inclusion, recognising and addressing the unique experiences of trans people from diverse backgrounds.
I’m optimistic about the future of diversity and inclusion in the music industry, we are making steps in the right direction. The charter represents a powerful tool in our ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and fair industry. But the journey towards full inclusion is far from over. It will require continuous commitment, education, and, most importantly, a willingness to listen to and uplift trans voices. As the industry continues to evolve, my hope is that we not only embrace trans inclusion but also celebrate the richness and diversity that we all as individuals bring to the world of music.
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