Focus groups "Sustaining gender equity: our aim in the music sector"

Safe Spaces and Events – facilitated by Martha Lomelí

In this interactive session, we will explore the concept of ‘safe space’ and how to apply it in our everyday work. Through reflections and group exercises, we will map current barriers for the establishment of safe spaces, such as power dynamics and internalised social norms, and discuss why we should instead strive to create safe(r) spaces and how to achieve them. This session is especially relevant for anyone who is interested in learning more about the principles of safe(r) spaces, their importance to promote social justice and what specific actions and mindsets could help us transform our events and workplaces into safe(r) spaces – especially for women and gender expansive people.

Intersectionality and Underrepresented Voices – facilitated by Aysha Hussain

This session will explore the intersections that lead to barriers to access in the music sector, including gender expansive identities, but also going beyond gender. From diverse genders, socio-economic background and race, to disability, ageism, sexual orientation and more; our multifaceted identities have a direct correlation to how we access opportunities. Through exploration of existing infrastructures, we will look at practical ways to create space for underrepresented voices in your area of work. And while there is never a one-hat-fits-all solution, we will collectively discuss what our respective challenges are and explore recommendations and solutions.

Gender Balance across the Music Sector – facilitated by Szonja Balogh

Join us in a creative and collaborative session designed to provide tangible tools and solutions to participants confronting gender balance issues in their own areas. Our goal is to equip participants with a strategy for creating or advancing gender balance both within their organizations and beyond, throughout the sector. We will explore and conduct a thorough analysis of gender issues within the participants' sectors in the music industry. Through a collaborative effort, we aim to identify common themes and synergies. We'll delve into the roots of these issues and brainstorm potential solutions.