On March 8, we recognise worldwide the social, economic, cultural and political efforts of women. We wish all girls and women a fantastic and inspiring International Women’s Day.
At the same time, we also reflect on the progress made in gender equality and the steps that still need to be taken. Gender equality is not yet a reality in the music industry either, unfortunately. Neither on- nor off-stage. Behind the scenes, it is particularly the advancement of women to higher positions that is still a utopia.
Gender Equality at AB
At AB, we make efforts to achieve gender equality on and off the stage. Festivals like BRDCST, Outrageous and Boterhammen in het Park have been prime examples for years now of how we strive for gender equality in programming. Female bands are placed intentionally high on the bill and we often work with female curators.
What’s more, there are more and more female artists filling (or to have filled, in 2024) our Main Hall multiple times. Sylvie Kreusch, Brutus, Hooverphonic and Helena. Pommelien Thijs takes the crown with a series of nine(!) concerts and that crushed all the records.
To support women on their trajectory to that stage, AB regularly organises workshops exclusively for FINTA*. In 2023, AB signed the Keychange Pledge. Keychange is an organisation that strives for a gender equal music industry. By way of a pledge, they encourage all branches of the music industry to give talented but underrepresented artists a platform.
This year, we also commence a collaboration with Scivias, a platform that work toward a more inclusive music industry in Wallonia and Brussels, with a focus on gender equality and diversity.
Behind the scenes: policy and team operations
Gender equality doesn’t stop with the artists on stage. Diversity is also a priority within the AB team itself. When recruiting, conscious attention is paid to a balanced representation of gender identities. Moreover, AB is committed to creating a safe working environment in which everyone can feel heard and respected. Internal training and awareness campaigns actively involve staff in striving for an inclusive workplace.
There is still work to be done, that much is clear. Gender equality is a long-term project that needs to be worked on every day! So not only on March 8 – but let this day be an extra moment of self-reflection and a stimulus to continue contributing to an inclusive musical world.
FINTA* : Female, Intersex, Non-binair, Trans and Agender.
