Status on gender equality: The conversation must be had, even though it’s not easy

Panelist and songwriter Samsaya had travelled from Norway to be part of the session, and she contributed with many interesting observations about how Norway has attained a greater focus on inclusion and diversity over the last few years. According to Samsaya, the concept of “diversity” needs to be redefined because in her view, there are many people that don’t realize what it means. She insisted that the majority of the industry are very welcoming toward diversity, but that these people struggle with pinpointing exactly how to better diversity.

“Diversity isn’t just about having equal parts women and men. It’s about looking at class, ethnicity, education, sexual orientation and much more,” Samsaya said.

Cecilia Krill, leader of the Aarhus-based consulting firm Drivkraft, was also present at the debate. Drivkraft offers courses that help individuals gain the confidence to demand their place in the music industry. Mainly it’s women that participate in the courses, but Krill insists that the course should work to attract anyone that wants to understand the fight of minorities in the music industry.

“There shouldn’t just be a course for women and minorities. Moreso, it’s about educating people in power, gatekeepers and leaders so they’re better able to understand and give space to women, non-binaries and other minorities in the industry,” Cecilia Krill added.

Samsaya and Krill wrapped the debate up by saying that it takes an effort from both sides – both minorities and those who aren’t minorities. They concluded that to create an equal and balanced music industry, it’s necessary to be brave enough to have a dialogue, to dare to politely correct each other, and to courageously speak out loud about things that need to change.