Trans Mission Concert at Wembley Arena Sends Loud Message of Solidarity
Pop singer Olly Alexander has declared that a major concert at London's Wembley Arena will deliver "a bold and loud message" of unwavering support for the trans community. The event, named Trans Mission, is scheduled for Wednesday, 11 March, and will feature an all-star lineup of musicians, actors, authors, and allies coming together to demonstrate solidarity and raise crucial funds.
Star-Studded Lineup and Powerful Purpose
Trans Mission will showcase performances from a diverse array of artists, including Olly Alexander himself, the acclaimed rock band Wolf Alice, Christine and the Queens, Imogen Heap, poet and musician Kae Tempest, Kate Nash, the Sugababes, Tom Grennan, Gossip frontwoman Beth Ditto, and Adam Lambert. The event will be hosted by television presenter Harriet Rose, with special appearances from notable allies such as actors Sir Ian McKellen and Russell Tovey, drag queens Juno Birch and Tia Kofi, and authors Shon Faye, Juno Dawson, and Munroe Bergdorf.
Olly Alexander explained the urgent motivation behind the concert, stating, "These times are challenging for many of us and especially the trans community. I know that many people want to show their support but aren't sure how to do it or are afraid of backlash or repercussions. Trans Mission is about joy and positivity – it's an opportunity to send a bold and loud message that we stand with the trans community, we are stronger together and we won't be silenced."
Artists Share Their Inspirations and Messages
Alexander highlighted the growing anti-trans sentiment and recent legal challenges, expressing hope that the event would affirm that trans people are loved and that cisgender individuals care deeply about their wellbeing. He emphasized, "I've been very close to trans people for most of my life and I see transphobia as an issue that affects all of us." The lineup was curated from artists who previously signed an open letter of support, ensuring a coalition of committed voices.
Beth Ditto articulated her reasons for participating, saying, "Trans voices need to be heard and highlighted. And right now, there are debates about the basic existence of an entire group of people. This isn't new. Marginalized people face this every day. And bringing joy, creating a place to spotlight them, celebrate them AND bring resources to help them is an honour." Her message to the trans community was one of resilience: "We will still be living, and paying our bills, taking the bus, doing a crossword, cooking dinner, raising children. We will still be living. Just like anyone does."
Adam Lambert framed the event as an act of resistance, noting, "Because joy is resistance, and creating a space where trans people feel safe, celebrated, and seen is powerful. Sometimes our community is only associated with negativity, sadness, and tragedy. I am all for an event that brings us together in joy, love, and positivity." He added a message of belonging: "You never needed permission to exist exactly as you are. You belong here, and there are so many of us proud to stand beside you."
Broad Coalition of Support and Fundraising Goals
Christine and the Queens expressed honour in standing for freedom, while Harriet Rose emphasized the need for unity and celebration in divided times. Bimini stressed the importance of allies showing up, stating, "When lack of services, lack of funding and smear campaigns are happening every single day in the media, it's time for allies to really turn up, show up, show out and show the trans community that they're not alone."
Simon Jones, part of the core organizing team, reinforced the collective effort, saying, "The Trans Mission concert says we are with you, not against you. With you not just as an LGBTQ community, but also with allies and friends across the board. We will all fight for our rights together, just as we have for decades before this." He firmly asserted, "I firmly believe there is no LGB without the T."
All profits from Trans Mission will be split between Not a Phase and the Good Law Project, two organizations dedicated to supporting the trans community and legal advocacy. Tickets are currently on sale, inviting the public to join this significant night of solidarity aimed at fostering a lifetime of change.
