On 16 April 2025, the UK Supreme Court made a ruling regarding the Equality Act 2010 that has had many adverse implications for trans women especially, but also for trans men, non-binary people and the intersex community.
Responding to the ruling, Mika Sellens, Co-Chair of our LGBTQI+ Working Group and Academy Board Director, said, “This is a significant step backwards for inclusion and equality. We must ensure that trans people are treated with respect and dignity, and that trans songwriters and composers are protected from discrimination and prejudice in the music industry.”
LGBTQI+ Working Group Co-chair Joshua Satchell added, “Songwriting is all about connection. Any policies that prevent a group of people from feeling included not only discriminate but also undermine the fabric of what we do as creatives and therefore cannot be allowed to stand.”
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is currently holding an open consultation on its code of practice in light of the ruling. The consultation closes on Monday 30 June 2025 at 23:59 BST.
See TransActual's guidance to help submit your response.
We encourage everyone to respond to the consultation and stand in solidarity with trans songwriters and composers.
