SoundCloud’s Post

A new report by music industry gender equality foundation Donne, Women in Music has found significant disparities in the representation of women and the global majority in orchestral compositions, reflecting a ‘regression in diversity’. The Equality and Diversity in Global Repertoire report is based on an analysis of 111 orchestral repertoires across 30 countries for the 2023-24 season and builds on the organisation’s annual research into the trends of programming diversity and equality within global concert repertoire which began in 2018. A study of 16,327 compositions scheduled for performance revealed that: 🎶 89.3% of orchestral repertoire was composed by white men 🎶 only 7.5% of works were composed by women, with just 1.6% by women from the global majority. #womeninmusic #genderequality #classicalmusic #supportwomeninmusic

Madrid's Pride Poster: More Than Cocktails and Heels? Madrid, a vibrant European capital often lauded for its LGBTQI+ scene, has faced criticism regarding its recent Pride poster. While the city boasts a reputation for inclusivity, some policies fall short of this image. For instance, unlike many European cities, Madrid hasn't implemented measures to ban and penalize the harmful practice of conversion therapy. Additionally, the national government's efforts to reform transgender rights legislation haven't received the city's government full support. The recent Pride poster further fueled the debate. Featuring imagery of cocktails, high heels, and condoms, it sparked questions about the true message of Pride. Where's the Movement in This Celebration? Pride celebrations are a time to not only rejoice in who we are but also to remember the historical struggles and ongoing fight for LGBTQI+ equality. This focus on partying and commercialization overshadows the movement's core values. As a feminist, I can't help but draw a parallel. Imagine if International Women's Day celebrations were suddenly shifted to a different month because it "suited the agenda" better. Pride deserves the same level of authenticity. Celebrating Pride with Purpose Moving forward, let's strive for a Pride celebration that reflects the community's rich history and ongoing fight. This could involve: 🔺 Featuring stories of LGBTQI+ activists 🔺 Highlighting the work of local LGBTQI+ organizations 🔺 Incorporating educational elements alongside the festivities. By acknowledging the past and present realities, Madrid can make its Pride celebration a true testament to the LGBTQI+ movement's spirit. #LGBTQ #PrideMonth #DiversityandInclusion

In light of the fact that Pride Month has come to an end and that every single day members of the LGBTQ+ community and especially the Trans Community face significant challenges in their desire to lead a life without perssecution. As a member of the community myself and a Trans ally I wanted to share the below post from Max Siegel for wider reach... I don’t know who needs to hear this, but seeming as very few of the parties and politicians campaigning for election tomorrow seem to understand it or care, let me be very clear: Transgender women are not a threat to anyone’s safety. ”Gender Ideology” is a term coined by right-wing and internet-based hate groups to present the rights and existence of transgender people as a threat to other parts of society. No one is trying to make anyone else transgender. People advocating for trans rights and safety are trying to ensure that people who are trans are treated with safety, and respect and at a baseline, kept alive. If you are worried about men using transgender inclusion policy to access women’s spaces and assault women, then you are not worried about the actions of transgender people, you are worried about the actions of men. Please advocate (and vote) for policies which actually address that. The use of transgender people during this election cycle has been engineered as a dog whistle distraction from the horrific state of the U.K economically and socially. The question “what is a woman?” is an easier hit to a politician than “how are you going to solve the cost of living crisis?” or “why can’t I access medical care?” If you consider yourself an LGBTQ+ ally, please take the time to review the policies of the person or party you are voting for on LGBTQ+ and transgender rights. If you are not planning to vote for your own reasons, please consider using your vote to advocate for the trans community. Yours, with hope, Max (a real life transgender person) #DEI #GeneralElection #UKPolitics #Vote

🟪🟦🟩🟨🟧🟥Embracing Trans Allies: A Call to Action 🟪🟦🟩🟨🟧🟥 In a world often clouded by misunderstanding and prejudice, the journey of a transgender individual can be fraught with challenges. My own story reflects this reality, echoing the struggles faced by countless others within the transgender community. Yet, amidst the darkness, there is hope—a glimmer that shines brighter when allies rise to stand alongside us. As a transgender woman, I have encountered my fair share of skepticism and discrimination. Too often, my identity has been dismissed as mere overthinking or brushed aside as inconsequential. But in the face of such dismissals, I have come to understand a fundamental truth: my feelings are valid, my experiences are real, and my voice deserves to be heard. Transphobia, in its various forms, perpetuates a cycle of harm that undermines the very fabric of inclusivity and acceptance. It fosters an environment where transgender individuals are made to feel unwelcome, invalidated, and unsafe. But it doesn't have to be this way. Now more than ever, we need allies—individuals who are willing to listen, learn, and lend their support to the transgender community. Being an ally goes beyond mere words; it requires action, empathy, and a commitment to equality for all. To be a trans ally means challenging harmful stereotypes and speaking out against discrimination wherever it may arise. It means educating oneself on the issues facing the transgender community and amplifying transgender voices in spaces where they are often silenced. It means advocating for policies and practices that promote inclusivity and respect for gender diversity. But above all, being a trans ally means standing in solidarity with transgender individuals, affirming their identities, and ensuring that they are treated with dignity and respect. So, I invite you—yes, you—to join me in this crucial endeavor. Let us be the change we wish to see in the world. Let us embrace empathy over apathy, understanding over ignorance, and love over hate. Together, we can create a future where every transgender individual is celebrated for who they are—a future where transphobia has no place to thrive. 🌈 Will you answer the call to be a trans ally? 🌈 Join me in building a more inclusive world—one where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. #TransAlly #Inclusion #Equality #LGBTQ+ #TransRights

Read my latest blog on why you should welcome LGBTQ+ into your venue because it is the right thing to do and ignoring the spending power of large groups of people is at your peril. https://lnkd.in/eqY4aukP #transgender #LGBTQ+ #Reflectionsofareluctantpublandlady #pubdoctors #diversity #pubmanagement

🌈 Celebrating International Transgender Visibility Day 2024! 🌈 Yesterday marked International Transgender Visibility Day, a day dedicated to honouring and celebrating the lives, achievements, and resilience of transgender individuals around the world. While I may be a day late, it's never too late to amplify the voices and stories of the trans community. I am incredibly proud to have played a pivotal role in the creation of the Michael Dillon Lecture Series, the flagship LGBTQ+ lecture series at the University of Oxford. This series is named after the extraordinary Michael Dillon, an alumni of St Anne's College, University of Oxford a surgeon, and a pioneer in the field. Michael Dillon was the first person to transition from male to female, and his courage and determination continue to inspire countless individuals within the trans community. The Michael Dillon Lecture Series serves as a platform to shed light on the challenges, triumphs, and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, aiming to foster understanding, awareness, and inclusivity. By bringing together distinguished speakers and thought leaders, we create an environment where dialogue, education, and support thrive. I am delighted that the philanthropic support generated by this series goes towards GiveOut an incredible charity supporting LGBTQ+ communities globally. Today, we recognise that Michael Dillon's struggle is just one example of the journey that many transgender individuals face worldwide. It is a struggle for recognition, acceptance, and equal rights. As we celebrate International Transgender Visibility Day, let us remember that visibility is not just about being seen but being valued and respected. In recognising the beauty and diversity within the trans community, we also acknowledge the systemic barriers and discrimination that continue to persist. It is our collective responsibility to work towards a world where transgender individuals can live authentically, free from prejudice and discrimination. #TransVisibilityDay #MichaelDillonLectureSeries #LGBTQ+ #Equality #Inclusivity #Fundraising

📊”While 81% of industry professionals and creators believe that discrimination exists in the music industry, just under 60% believe that gender-based discrimination is a major problem in the music industry. Unsurprisingly, gender is a major factor that dictates the belief in gender discrimination. While 73% of women and 83% of nonbinary individuals believe discrimination exists in the music industry, only 39% of the men surveyed believe the same.” - BE THE CHANGE: Gender Equality in the Music Industry Report by Believe, Tunecore and Luminate Let’s turn this awareness into action for a more inclusive and equitable musical landscape.💟 #womi #womenofmusicindia #womeninbusiness

🌍 Embracing Diversity: Celebrating Transgender Rights 🏳️⚧️ The journey towards inclusivity continues, and today, let's shine a spotlight on the incredible resilience and strength of our transgender community. 🌈 In India and around the world, transgender individuals face unique challenges and triumphs. Despite these challenges, they continue to break barriers and contribute immensely to society. 🌟 ⭐ In India: Transgender Rights are progressing, with the landmark NALSA judgment in 2014 recognizing their fundamental rights. Yet, there's much work ahead to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal opportunities. 🌎 Globally: #transrights are gaining momentum worldwide. Nations are implementing policies to protect transgender individuals from discrimination and violence, moving closer to genuine equality. But real change begins with remarkable individuals like Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju. She, who made her debut in the web series "Made in Heaven," has not only embraced her true self but also shattered stereotypes and redefined what it means to be transgender in India. From feeling like an alien in her body to deciding that she is a woman who should just own it, Trinetra's journey is a testament to courage and resilience. Unlike many trans individuals, she wasn't thrown out of her home but faced bullying in her formative years. However, she became a doctor, embraced her true self, and underwent gender confirmation surgery. Trinetra's role as Meher in "Made in Heaven" showcases her talent and impact in the entertainment industry. Her presence on screen challenges traditional narratives and represents the rightful place of transgender actors in the spotlight. So, here's a question for all of you: In a world striving for inclusivity, what more can we do to support and uplift the transgender community? Share your thoughts and let's continue this important conversation. 🤝💬 #embracediversity #transgenderawareness #transrights #inspiration #inclusivitymatters #madeinheaven #breakthebarriers #transgender #transgenderrights #transgenderpride #breakingstereotypes #spreadlove #transequality #transgenderheroes #transvisibilitymatters #equalityforall #inclusionrevolution #diversevoices #lgbtq+ #lgbtqrights #lgbtqcommunity #lgbtqinclusion #lgbtqpride #lgbtqsupport #transrightsarehumanrights #inspiringjourneys #breakingbarriers #genderequality LawSikho Ramanuj Mukherjee Abhyuday Agarwal Komal Shah Yash Vijayvargiya Abhipsa Anamika Abhishek Charan Abhishek Pareek

Today, on the National Coming Out Day, am proud to celebrate OUR all Superpowers. It is our speak up culture, our voice which is the true Superpower in professional and personal life. Speaking up when something goes in the wrong direction or we feel and see a thread to basic human rights is today more important than ever before. Looking in the current changing environment in globally introducing new anti LGBTIQ+ bills and specifically anti-transgender bills it is time to speak up. 37 countries in the world de-facto criminalize transgender people and 11 countries have laws against them. Several States in the U.S. have recently signed bills cutting off the rights of transgender people which are basic human rights but also limiting gender affirming care to transgender kids/youth. The UK government has recently embarked on a rhetoric against transgender people – citation: “A man is a man, and a woman is a woman, that’s just common sense”.   Indeed, I speak up because a Transgender Woman is a Woman, too. And a Transgender Man is a Man as well. Transgender Rights are Human Rights and the same is valid for the rights of the overall LGBTIQ+ community. Am counting on all OUR voices out there, being an Ally and supporting our LGBTIQ+ colleagues, friends and family members. #EmbraceyourAuthenicSelf #Sandoz #openmindsopendoors #SandozPride

Content Warning: politics, queer/transphobia, mental health. I was holding back on saying something political, but amplifying this is important to me - I'll omit certain details to keep it vague. I recently received a piece of electoral correspondence from one of the major parties that styled itself as a letter from a future version of myself in 2044. If you've received this as well, I'm sure you know where I'm going. In it, "the party" assumes a lot of very negative things about myself that are uncharacteristic for me. I know this was written as a "catch-all" by an intern or a gen-AI using publicly accessible data from the Electoral Register, so I should probably put it out of mind for what it is: total rubbish. However while reading it I tried to laugh it off, "how dare someone think they know me better?" kind of thing, but it didn't help. I don't use the term trans/transgender for myself (despite using they/them pronouns) as I'm still an an awkward phase of working things out in private. The more I read that "letter" I felt a deepening dread, head spinning, sick to my stomach in a way more violent and deep a pit as any rollercoaster could create. After asking some friends (not in UK, but still very queer), we pinned it as a wave of gender dysphoria - something I haven't recognised with such clarity before. I've spent the past few days trying to see if I can report the document, or remove my details from the electoral register for the purposes of advertising (whilst maintaining the right to vote), only to find that the request to remove that permission needs to be sent to every UK political party individually, with no guarantee that they will comply. It's also sent my mental health into a negative spiral. You'd think the PR agencies that help run political campaigns - ideologically aligned or not - would have members of staff that would at least question or offer an alternative perspective? I know I did, and yet here I am wondering how many others felt like me reading it? How many trans people face that same dread and sickness just from waking up in the morning, unsure of what it will bring? How many of our siblings, parents, and friends go to bed at the end of the day and hope they don't wake up because the systems around us have neglected their healthcare needs? How many smiles and chances of happy memories have been taken from our trans youth because of hate? Because some lives are deemed to be worth less than others in the name of "public safety"? Because "it just makes sense"? The answer is too many. There isn't a "good" option on the table, realistically it's a choice of the least worst option - has been for a while. Picking the option that is willing to be understanding, not to score "societal points" like we're on Reddit, and sit at the table with trans & queer people to make actual changes. Tomorrow, please vote - consider change and compassion. With hope, a closet queer. ✊🏳🌈