The MPA celebrates LGBT History Month UK 2026
By DEI Team
Date
Science & Innovation: Why it Matters to the Music Industry
February is LGBT History Month UK, a time to recognise, reflect on and celebrate the contributions of LGBT+ people past and present. This year’s theme, Science & Innovation, invites us to explore how LGBT+ individuals have shaped discovery, creativity and progress and why inclusion remains essential to innovation today.
While the theme focuses on science and technology, its relevance extends deeply into the music industry, where innovation, creativity and technology intersect daily from music publishing systems and rights management to AI, sound engineering and digital distribution.
Why Science & Innovation Matter in Music Publishing
Innovation is at the heart of modern music publishing. LGBT+ people have played and continue to play vital roles in:
- Music technology and production
- Audio engineering and sound innovation
- Digital rights management and data systems
- Creative experimentation and genre-defining work
- Academic research, music psychology and wellbeing
However, many of these contributions have historically gone unrecognised. LGBT History Month allows us to challenge omissions, celebrate excellence and reinforce the truth that diverse voices drive better ideas and stronger industries. For the music industry, this month reinforces the importance of fairness, representation and respect of values that sit at the core of a sustainable creative economy.
LGBT History Month UK is an opportunity for organisations to recognise LGBT+ contributions, build understanding and strengthen inclusive workplace cultures. In 2026, the theme Science & Innovation highlights how diversity fuels creativity, progress and problem-solving, values that are central to the music industry.
What you can do to support your staff
- Educate
- Share a short article or profile on an LGBT+ innovator in music, science or technology
- Highlight how innovation underpins music publishing (e.g. rights tech, AI, digital platforms)
- Signpost staff to LGBT History Month resources and learning materials
- Celebrate
- Spotlight LGBT+ colleagues, allies or role models (with consent)
- Share supportive messages via internal communications and social media channels
- Display LGBT History Month materials in offices or digital spaces
- Engage your team
- Host a short lunch-and-learn, panel or discussion (30 – 45 minutes)
- Encourage teams to reflect on how inclusion supports creativity and innovation
- Invite questions and open dialogue in a respectful, supportive environment
- Reflect on inclusion
- Review policies, benefits and language through an LGBT+ inclusion lens
- Ask: Do our systems allow everyone to contribute and innovate fully?
- Use staff feedback to identify areas for improvement
Suggested Activities and Good Practice
Talk about LGBT+ innovation in music, technology or wellbeing. Why not spotlight: an LGBT+ historical or contemporary innovator. Screen a short film or documentary followed by a discussion. Run a workshop covering inclusive leadership, allyship or psychological safety.
- Use inclusive language and respect pronouns
- Challenge bias and stereotypes when you see them
- Listen to lived experiences without judgement
- Support LGBT+ initiatives beyond February
- Be visible in your commitment – allyship matters
LGBT History Month UK 2026 reminds us that innovation does not happen in isolation. It is shaped by people, their identities, experiences and freedom to express themselves fully. By celebrating LGBT+ contributions to science and innovation, we reaffirm our commitment to a music industry that is inclusive, forward-thinking and fit for the future.
Useful Resources
https://lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/ – LGBT+ History Month UK / Schools OUT – official theme resources
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/ – workplace inclusion and ally guidance
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/lgbtqiaplus-mental-health/useful-contacts/ – Mind / Music Support – wellbeing in the music industry
For more information or to join our AccessAbility Employee, please contact:
Helen Choudhury
Head of DEI, CSR and Wellbeing
[email protected]
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