More than 400 artists and professionals in the field signed an open letter, highlighting their support and asking for protection from discrimination.

The move comes in response to the Supreme Court’s April 16 ruling that the definition of “woman” in the Equality Act 2010 is based on biological sex, effectively excluding transgender women who hold a gender identity certificate from the legal definition. This raises concerns about the potential for transgender women to be legally excluded from women-only spaces.

The open letter, started by artist Tom Rasmussen and publicist Tom Mehrtens, as well as Olly Alexander of Years & Years, expresses the “growing concern” for transgender, non-binary and intersex people in the UK. Among the well-known names signing the letter are Charli XCX, Four Tet, Shygirl, Jessie Ware, Rina Sawayama, Neneh Cherry, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and many more.

“We, the undersigned professionals from the UK music industry, stand in solidarity with the trans, non-binary and intersex communities who have been affected by the Supreme Court’s decision of 16 April,” the letter reads. “This is our moment to amplify voices that need to be heard, to advocate for inclusion and real justice, and to ensure that our industry remains a welcoming and innovative space for all.”

The letter highlights that the British music industry “has long celebrated a diversity of voices and identities” and that trans, intersex and non-binary people “are an integral part of the industry in every aspect, past, present and future”. It calls for immediate action to ensure that trans, non-binary and intersex colleagues, collaborators and audiences are protected from discrimination and harassment across all areas of the industry.

This collective statement from the British music scene sends a strong message of support to the trans community at a time of increased vulnerability and questioning of their rights. It also highlights the role that artists and cultural institutions can play in promoting equality and acceptance. Alongside the letter, a new “Trans Charter” for the music industry is expected to be launched in May, aiming to establish guidelines and provide support for trans and non-binary people in the space.