shesaid.so is stepping up with a groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting safety, inclusivity, and equity within the music industry—introducing the Trans Charter for the Music Industry. Crafted with the urgent need for change in mind, this project is led by music industry advocate and inclusivity campaigner Saskhia Menendez, whose passion for empowering marginalized voices drives the movement forward. “The inspiration for this charter stems from years of witnessing the harsh realities that trans and non-binary individuals face in the music industry,” Menendez explains.
The Trans Charter is more than a set of guidelines—it’s a call to action. A blueprint for change, it offers music organisations—from labels to promoters, venues to professional groups—a framework for creating a safer, more inclusive space for transgender and non-binary workers and artists. These best practices are set to shift the narrative and break down the barriers that have too often silenced or excluded these communities.
Led by Menendez, who has been a crucial force in inclusivity efforts through her work with Keychange and her podcast Music Industry Insights Worldwide, the charter aims to make inclusivity not just a principle, but a concrete practice. “The music industry has the power to set an example of inclusivity,” she says, “and this charter ensures that trans and non-binary individuals are not only seen but fully supported and empowered.”
At the core of the Trans Charter lie four essential pillars: trans-affirming policies, amplifying trans and non-binary voices, providing comprehensive educational resources, and creating networks of support and collaboration. These principles are designed to reshape industry culture from the inside out, ensuring that respect and inclusion are woven into the very fabric of the music world.
Menendez, drawing from her own lived experience, reflects on her journey: “I felt a deep responsibility to take action… This Charter is about building a future where inclusivity and respect are not just ideals, but everyday practices in the music world.” Her passion fuels the initiative, aiming to dismantle exclusion and misrepresentation while fostering safe working environments for all.
For those eager to dive deeper, the Trans Charter can be explored in full on shesaid.so‘s website, where more details about its mission and vision can be found.
In other notable initiatives, last November saw the release of the second Acid For Trans Health compilation, featuring artists like Super Drama’s Papa Jon, Hunter Starkings, Mimoid, and Acidulant, with all proceeds benefitting FiveforFive, a charitable cause supporting trans health.
As the music industry embraces this essential movement, shesaid.so is ensuring that trans and non-binary individuals are not just supported, but celebrated in a space that is finally moving towards a true reflection of equity and inclusivity.
