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TRANS INCLUSION CHARTER

MISSION STATEMENT

The Association for Electronic Music (AFEM) is proud to support the launch of the Trans Charter—a landmark initiative advancing equity, safety, and visibility for transgender and non-binary people across the global music industry.

Spearheaded by respected industry advocate Saskhia Menendez, the Trans Charter provides a vital framework of actionable policies and best practices designed to foster inclusive environments in all corners of the sector—from labels and venues to festivals, agencies, and digital platforms. Rooted in principles of accessibility, dignity, and respect, the charter is a call to action for organizations to actively dismantle barriers and champion trans and non-binary voices at every level.

Developed in collaboration with LGBTQIA+ professionals, artists, and industry leaders, the Trans Charter reflects a collective commitment to systemic change. It empowers music companies and stakeholders to move beyond statements of support, equipping them with the tools and guidance necessary to build truly inclusive and affirming spaces for all.

Take Action: Sign the Trans Charter

Join AFEM and a growing number of music organizations, artists, and professionals by committing to trans inclusion in the industry. We ask all members to sign:



Sign the Trans Charter here

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10-Point Plan for Inclusion, Safety & Empowerment in the Music & Creative Industries

  1. Affirmation & Identity Recognition
    Ensure all trans and non-binary creatives are recognised and respected by their correct names, pronouns, and identities across all official documentation—this includes contracts, bookings, accreditation, backstage passes, press materials, and public communications.
    Where legal gender recognition is limited, organizations must adopt internal policies that respect lived identities without requiring legal documentation.
  2. Inclusive Contracts & Rider Rights
    Embed trans-inclusive language and protections in all performance, recording, and employment contracts. Allow for gender-affirming rider requests—such as pronoun badges, private changing spaces, and specific facilities—without explanation, delay, or judgment.
  3. Safe Travel & Touring Protocols
    Establish travel safety guidelines for trans artists, particularly when visiting regions with anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Work with festivals, promoters, embassies, and human rights organizations to provide briefings and emergency contacts.
  4. Zero Tolerance for Transphobia
    Enforce anti-transphobia policies across all organizations, events, and platforms. Provide safe and transparent reporting mechanisms for discrimination, and decline partnerships with events that enable hate speech or exclusion.
  5. Visibility & Representation
    Center trans and non-binary artists in headline slots, major awards, and leadership roles. Invest in paid positions for trans curators, DJs, producers, journalists, and executives who shape cultural direction—not just participate in it.
  6. Mental Health & Wellness Support
    Partner with LGBTQ+ health organizations to offer trans-specific mental health services and trauma-informed care. Encourage wellness stipends, therapy access, or dedicated mental health funds as part of standard artist care.
  7. Education & Industry Training
    Provide in-depth training for managers, labels, promoters, venues, and press teams on trans inclusion, language, safeguarding, and cultural competency. Make this education mandatory and regularly updated in partnership with trans-led groups.
  8. Ethical Data & Community-Led Accountability
    Support voluntary, anonymous data collection on trans participation led by trans researchers and organizations. Use insights to drive policy, funding, and inclusion—while safeguarding privacy, dignity, and consent.
  9. Funding & Commissioning for Trans Creatives
    Establish dedicated funds, residencies, and commissions for trans-led music and cultural projects. Ensure funding bodies embed inclusion into criteria and provide equal access to opportunity.
  10. Allyship & Intersectional Solidarity
    Prioritise inclusion of trans people who are Black, Brown, Indigenous, disabled, migrant, working class, or outside the Global North. True trans liberation requires intersectional, cross-community solidarity and global collaboration.