Category: News

This summer, 16 young composers spent two weeks on Temple University’s campus, where they will be able to work on their original musical works and receive hands-on training.

Wildflower Festival: A Platform for Creativity and Support for LGBTQ Composers

The Wildflower Composers Festival, now in its sixth year, is an educational program designed for women, transgender and non-binary composers. In the program, participants learned from music teachers who also identify as women, transgender, or nonbinary. The program concluded with a world premiere concert at the Rock Hall Auditorium on the campus of Temple University.

Clover Drake, a 16-year-old composer from Washington who identifies as nonbinary, said the environment fosters creative freedom.

“It really helps to be yourself,” Drake shared. “I know it may sound cliché, but being able to connect with others, having shared experiences, and not being judged makes the creative process so much easier.”

On Wednesday, pianist Hanchien Lee spoke to students, dissecting the works of Mozart and other great composers, which Drake said was very useful.

“She was able to imbue this inanimate object with human emotion,” Drake said of Lee’s performance. “I write for piano, so I was just thinking about what different techniques I could use, like dynamic changes and working with different arpeggios.”

According to a recent Doone Women in music report in the 2023–2024 concert season. only 7.5% of the music performed by the world’s orchestras was written by women.

That’s why Wildflower founder and executive director, composer and cellist Erin Bush, founded the festival.

“Coming from my own experience growing up, being the only girl in the space,” Bush said. “I really missed having peers and a community and mentors that looked like me, and so I wanted to create this space for the next generation.”

Now young composers like 16-year-old Madeleine Reed have someone to look up to. Reed brought her original composition for cello to the camp.

“Now I’m looking forward to getting more advice from the industry and learning how to actually earn commissions… and how it can be made a reality,” Reed said.

By the end of the program, students had the opportunity to record their compositions with the help of professional musicians such as Lee.

“It’s an amazing team-building experience, and students get an amazing record that they can also use when applying to college,” Bush said.

Bush could only dream of such an experience as a young girl.

“I think it would completely change the way I think about myself as a composer,” she said. “Just knowing that there are other people out there would mean the world to me… knowing that there is a place for me.”

From idea to inspiration: how Wildflower became a symbol of revolution in the music industry

Born as an initiative to support and develop talent among female, trans and non-binary composers, Wildflower Festival has come a long way since its inception. Inspired by the need to create an inclusive space for talented music creators, the festival began six years ago when its founder, composer and cellist Erin Bush, recognized the lack of representation in the music industry for such groups.

The idea for Wildflower grew out of Bush’s personal experiences as an only girl in music circles, seeking to find a community and mentors with whom she could share her experiences and aspirations. This personal experience motivated her to create a festival that would provide a platform for those who are often left on the fringes of the music world.

Since its first year, Wildflower has strived to not only create opportunities for participants to showcase their original creations, but also to provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills that could help them further their careers. The festival offers participants a two-week hands-on program where they receive mentorship from established professionals who are themselves part of the LGBTQ community.

Each summer, young composers gather on Temple University’s Philadelphia campus to participate in educational seminars, master classes, and workshops. Participants have the opportunity to work on their compositions under the guidance of experts such as pianist Hanchien Lee, and conclude the program with a world premiere concert. This final concert represents the culmination of all efforts and achievements, demonstrating the fruitful work and creativity of each participant.

Throughout its history, Wildflower has constantly expanded its horizons and attracted more and more talented composers. Not only has the festival been a milestone in the careers of countless young musicians, but it has also become a symbol of growth and change in the music industry, providing essential resources and support for those looking to make their voices heard.

The ruling party in Georgia, Georgian Dream, submitted 19 bills to parliament, united under the title “against Propaganda promoting LGBT issues among minors and to protect family values.”

Georgia proposes new holiday and LGBT laws: what will change?

Parliamentary press secretary Shalva Papuashvili said that one of the bills would establish a new public holiday in Georgia – Family Holiness Day. It is proposed to celebrate it annually on 17 May, on the same day as the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia.

Other bills reportedly include:

• a ban on marches, gatherings or protests with the goal of advocating for same-sex marriage and the like;
• prohibition of registering alternative forms of marriage unions;
• prohibition on the adoption of children by non-heterosexual couples
• a ban on any medical procedures for gender reassignment; • prohibition on “LGBT propaganda” in the education sector and the media (a special commission will monitor that authors do not “promote same-sex relationships or incest” in their works);
• a ban on limiting the use of the terms “mom” and “dad” in government agencies and private companies.

Shalva Papuashvili noted that, at the initiative of the party in power, constitutional changes of similar content have also been discussed for several months. For this, Georgian Dream needs three-quarters of the votes from the total number of deputies, that is, the support of the opposition. In contrast, an announced legislative package requires a simple majority in parliament. It is expected that the bill will be adopted in the first reading during the spring session and in the second and third readings during the autumn session Papuashvili noted.

Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze noted that it is important to clearly distinguish between the protection of human rights and propaganda in the context of the bill “On Family Values and the Protection of Minors.” 

Diverse Opinions: Reaction to LGBT Rights Bills in Georgia

People’s reactions to bills related to LGBT rights in Georgia have been varied and often emotional. Some expressed support for the proposed laws, considering them to preserve traditional family values and ensure the well-being of children. They expressed concerns about the possible influence of LGBT propaganda on society, particularly on the youth. Others criticized the bills as discriminatory and violative of the rights of the LGBT community. They emphasized that everyone has the right to freedom of expression of their sexual orientation and prohibiting anti- LGBTQ events and public holidays is a form of rejection and exclusion.

Opponents of the bills also emphasized that such measures could create an atmosphere of intolerance and fear among the LGBT community, which could lead to a deterioration in their social and psychological situation. In general, the discussion of the bills became the occasion for a broad public discussion about justice, tolerance and protection of the rights of all citizens of Georgia.

The  Swedish parliament approved  legislation allowing gender reassignment from a certain age of 16. 234 deputies voted for it, and 94 were against it. Now you no longer need to have a diagnosis of gender dysphoria to change your gender.

Sweden is reducing the age requirement for gender reassignment : details and public reaction

The Swedish parliament has approved legislation reducing the age for gender reassignment from 18 to 16 years 234 deputies voted for it, while 94 were against it. However, those under the age of 18 will still need the consent of a guardian, a medical professional and the National Health Council.

Gender reassignment is now possible without having to be diagnosed with gender incongruence.

This pertains to the discomfort an individual feels as a result of the misalignment between their gender identity and their assigned sex at birth.

The move in Swedish law is part of a wider trend around the world to ease procedures for changing gender identity. Policy revisions in this area help improve

access to healthcare and rights  and visibility for the LGBT+ community.

For many  transgender individuals, gender transition holds a significant important step in their identity and comfort. Lowering the age for this procedure to 16 years reflects an understanding of current scientific and public views on issues of gender identity and support for LGBT+ rights.

Despite this, questions and conversations regarding gender transition  at a young age remain relevant. It is important to ensure that procedures and decisions are based on psychological, medical and ethical advice and take into account the wishes and well-being of the individual.

Reactions to this law in Sweden have ranged from support to criticism. However, it reflects the complexity and importance of discussing and reforming policies related to the rights of transgender people. Such steps help create a more inclusive and supportive society for all its individuals, irrespective of their gender identity.

The law will come into force from the beginning of July 2025. Similar legal changes have been made in Denmark, Norway, Finland and Spain.

Global trend: how gender reassignment is regulated in different countries

In many countries around the world, the process of gender reassignment has become more accessible and legally regulated. However, it is worth noting that rules and procedures may vary significantly in different parts of the world.

In Denmark and Norway, there is also legislation   permitting individuals to alter their gender without having to be diagnosed with gender dysphoria. In these countries, procedures usually include obtaining consent from a guardian or parent (if the person is a minor) and consultation with medical professionals.

In Finland, gender reassignment is also possible at age 16, but mandates a diagnosis of gender incongruence and consultation  with medical experts.

In Spain, gender reassignment procedures are available from age 16 and also require a diagnosis confirming gender incongruence  and support from medical professionals.

It is worth noting that these rules and procedures may change over time and may depend on the political and social situation in each country. However, overall, the global trend toward easier gender reassignment procedures reflects a broader desire for respect for the rights and self-determination of the LGBT+ community.

In addition to those countries that have already been mentioned, many others have also developed legislation regulating the process of gender reassignment.

In Canada, for example, there is a legislative framework that allows you to change gender on documents without the requirement of undergoing surgical procedures.  This makes the process more accessible and less invasive for transgender people.

Some US states, such as California and New York, also have laws that simplify the process of updating gender on official documents  . However, rules may vary from state to state.

In the UK, gender reassignment is also regulated by law, but necessitates a diagnosis of gender incongruence   and a waiting period before the gender reassignment is officially recognised.

In some countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, gender transition laws have also been reviewed and improved to make the process more inclusive and accessible to transgender people.

These examples show that many countries are actively working to improve rights and procedures for the LGBT+ community, including simplifying the process of gender transition.

European Foreign Policy has warned that disinformation involving sexual identity stereotypes could be used in foreign campaigns aimed at interfering in the upcoming June elections.

Disinformation and threats: the impact of political rhetoric on LGBTI rights in Europe

A study by human rights organization ILGA-Europe has found an increase in the level of “hate speech” directed at the LGBTI community community in various European countries. Over the past year, such statements have been recorded from politicians hailing from 32 European nations, encompassing 19  members of the European Union. The organization’s advocacy director, Catherine Hoogendubel, emphasized the rise in homophobic language,particularly noticeable in EU countries, and expressed concern that this also affects children. “Politicians demonize the LGBTI community while using the argument of protecting children from perceived danger. This leads to incidents of violence near libraries and schools where children should feel safe,” she said.

As per the ILGA-Europe findings, there has been an increase in the use of “scare tactics” against transgender people to limit their ability to participate in sex education for minors. In addition, gay pride parades are becoming increasingly frequent targets of hostility. Human rights activists are warning of the dangers of using anti-transvestite and anti-gay narratives to spread misinformation leading up to the elections for the European Parliament. With projections that conservatives and the far right could win significant numbers of seats, such efforts could have a major impact on the political environment.

Marc Angel, vice-president of the European Parliament and co-chair of the 161-member cross-factional LGBTI group, expressed his concern about the spread of hate speech among politicians, including his observations of parliamentary sessions. “I am often taken aback by the statements I hear in the plenary sessions that I chair,” he said in an interview with Euronews. “If elected officials employ such language, then obviously ordinary people will also use it,” he added. “We should be conscious of the existence of an anti-gender movement receiving upport from various parties, and we must resist their propaganda efforts,” Angel stressed.

The use of homophobic rhetoric in the European political arena

Catherine Hoogendubel, director of advocacy at ILGA-Europe cautions that European elections are set in a “more polarized and violent climate”, noting that the very basic values and standards on which the European Union was built are coming into question. “Respect for human dignity and rights, liberty, democratic principles, equality, and legal governance – all these principles are being tested,” she explained. “The topic of human rights, including LGBTI rights, is increasingly becoming the object of manipulation by far-right forces with the aim of inciting divisions in society, undermining democratic principles and the principle of legal governance and human rights.

In May of the previous year, Igor Matović, the former Prime Minister of Slovakia and later Finance Minister, drew criticism for his comments regarding a peaceful demonstration organized by LGBTI activists. He stated, “Nowhere have I encountered such a gathering of primitive, arrogant, vulgar, and reprehensible individuals as among these transgender activists. We must shield our children from these ‘individuals’.” In July of the same year, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán accused the European Union of forsaking its Christian legacy in favor of “hedonistic paganism.” According to him, LGBTQ+ people are conducting “gender campaigns” against Hungary.

ILGA has expressed the view that such statements contribute to an increase in the number of physical attacks: only one EU country has not recorded a single hate crime against members of the LGBTQ+ community over the past year.

The decision was reached on February 15 by the Greek Parliament, securing a resolute majority vote for the legalizing same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex couples. This significant development places Greece as the 37th nation worldwide, and notably the first among Orthodox countries.nations, to embrace same-sex marriage. The legislation garnered support from 176 out of the 245 members of the Greek Parliament who were present during the voting process.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who heads the conservative party New Democracy, personally supported the adoption of the law. At the same time, despite the opposition of dozens of deputies from his party, the legalization of same-sex marriage was supported by opposition deputies, including representatives of the  leftist Syriza party, led by Stefanos Kasselakis, who is openly gay. On social network X, formerly known as Twitter, Prime Minister Mitsotakis celebrated this moment as a historic step in ensuring human rights, emphasizing that it reflects modern Greece, known for its progressive and democratic values, standing on a platform of European values.

During parliamentary discussions, Prime Minister Mitsotakis expressed confidence that the new law  would “markedly enhance the quality of life of many citizens without affecting the lives of the majority.”

The Greek Orthodox Church is against the legalization of same-sex marriage, and the new law is facing criticism

The Greek (Hellenic) Orthodox Church, recognized as the “dominant religion” in the nation and holding sway over numerous members of Mitsotakis’s party, staunchly opposes the legalization of same-sex marriage. Archbishop of Athens and All Greece, Jerome II, stated that the new legislation is an effort to enforce new standards  on society, which, in his opinion, destroy the foundations of society.

On Sunday, a rally against the new law was held in Athens, in which about four  thousand individuals participated, holding icons and crosses in their hands. In the  latest parliamentary elections in Greece, right-wing liberals again won. Greece has emerged from the financial crisis that caused problems in the eurozone. Sociological data suggests that Greece is the most religious country in Europe.The Pew Research Center suggests that approximately 90% of Greek inhabitants identify as Orthodox Christians, with 58% of them indicating that religion holds significance in their lives. However, only 16% attend church regularly, which also remains the highest in Europe.

As AFP notes, in 2015, Greece passed legislation permitting civil partnerships for couples of the same sex although not marriage, when the Syriza party was in power. Last October, the leader of the party, Stefanos Kasselakis, wedded his partner.  in the US, sparking criticism from homophobic conservative politicians. The law passed under Syriza’s rule does not permit same-sex couples to adopt children; adoption is only allowed for one partner who has the right to formal adoption, not both. It also did not address inheritance issues for same-sex couples. LGBT organizations in Greece welcomed the new law. “Today is a day of joy!” – one of them, Rainbow Families of Greece, said on social networks.

Changing your gender on official documents, obtaining medical care and receiving hormones without humiliating procedures or fear for your life continue to be challenging for minors in Europe who want to begin their transgender transition.

In an impressive achievement, Alex (not his real name) was able to access hormone replacement therapy two months before his 18th birthday. He became the youngest French person to convince his clinic to provide him with specialized health care related to his gender identity.

Alex realized the need for gender transition a little over a year ago. “It was a defining moment in my life. I graduated from high school, went to university, and my voice started to change by the end of the first semester. It was a relief and happiness. I realized that I could try to live without people knowing that I was trans.” -male identity,” recalls the young man.

In France, it is possible for minors to undergo gender-affirming therapy, including the use of puberty blockers or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, most medical institutions require a mandatory psychiatric evaluation, a process that can take several years.

For Alex, thanks to the support of his parents, the process was relatively quick. However, not everyone is so lucky.

“I recently spoke with my endocrinologist, and she told me that the clinic stopped the program I was using because there weren’t enough doctors willing to work with us,” he says. He also adds that now the wait to see a doctor can be up to a year, while for him the wait was only a month.

Dramatic twist: What happened to LGBTQ+ rights in Europe? 

Different parts of the European Union are witnessing mixed movements on LGBTQ+ rights. Some countries are passing progressive gender laws, while others are seeking to tighten restrictions, especially for trans teenagers.

In February 2023, for example, Spain took an important step towards respecting self-determination of gender by allowing individuals over 16 to self-identify their gender on official documents. During the same period, Sweden introduced a ban on hormone therapy for people under 18 years of age, except in rare situations.

Finland scrapped a sterilization requirement for transgender people, while Croatia discussed possible tightening of rules on access to gender-affirming therapy and extending restrictions to those over 21.

However, alongside these changes, Europe has seen a horrific increase in violence against the LGBTQ+ community in the past year. Transgender people have become a particularly vulnerable group. ILGA, Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ rights organisation, stresses that this is not just about physical attacks, but also about the rise in suicides caused by hostility in society. This phenomenon requires immediate attention and action from society and legislation.

The year 2022 has seen terrible events involving violence against the LGBTQ+ community in various countries. In Germany, a transgender man was killed during a pride parade. A trans woman was brutally attacked in the center of Tallinn. In Georgia, a cisgender woman whose gender identity matched her biological sex was targeted by criminals but was mistaken for a trans man.

In addition, there were at least two attacks on LGBTQ+ bars: in Oslo, two people were killed and 20 more were injured; in Bratislava, the tragedy claimed the lives of two people.

ILGA-Europe’s Executive Director, Evelyn Paradis, expressed concern about the growing hostility and intolerance towards the LGBTI community, not only in countries with clear hostility and intolerance, but also in those that have traditionally been tolerant of them. According to NGOs, in Ireland, Spain, Norway, Poland, Great Britain and Switzerland there is an increase in hatred towards trans people.

Medical procedures in Ireland: Why is this a concern?

In Ireland, as well as in Hungary and Poland, the law allows you to receive gender reassignment therapy from the age of 17, but in practice this has proven virtually impossible. In addition, Ireland stands out among 11 European countries that support the principle of “gender self-determination”. In the independent part of the island there is a simplified procedure for changing gender in official documents.

However, the realization of these rights faces serious obstacles in the form of an ineffective health care system and a lack of specialists. The wait for hormone therapy can be up to seven years, which effectively means that many people fail to begin their transgender transition until adulthood. This situation highlights the need to improve access to health care and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland and other countries with similar challenges.

“Irish young people and their parents find themselves in situations where they are forced to seek medical treatment abroad, or even order medicine online without proper medical supervision, which poses a serious threat,” said Moneen Griffith, chief executive of LGBTQ+ youth organization BeLonG To in Ireland.

She also highlights that before the UK left the European Union (Brexit), Irish citizens made extensive use of UK clinics under the Treatment Abroad Scheme (TAS), which allowed them to seek medical treatment in other EU countries with full reimbursement through national insurance.

Spain: Decentralization and its consequences for the country

The situation for young people in Spain looks completely different. Last February, the country passed a law that significantly expanded the rights of LGBTQ+ people. This means that improved conditions have become available for transgender citizens to change their gender on official documents. Previously, this was only possible after two years of hormone therapy and a psychiatric evaluation, with a diagnosis of gender dysphoria included in the medical record.

According to the NGO Transgender Europe, Spain ranks second in Europe after Malta in terms of access to trans health care. Uge Sangila, president of the FELGTBI+ association, emphasizes that in most autonomous communities of the country, young people can easily receive qualified care, starting with a referral from their family doctor. Moreover, schoolchildren have the opportunity to easily change their names in school registers.

However, there are regions where the situation is not so rosy. For example, in Castile and Leon, which is partly controlled by the far-right political party Vox, access to health care is not guaranteed. Uge Sangil notes that everything depends on the will of a particular endocrinologist, and one should not rely solely on the goodwill of medical workers.