Toronto's Bells Larsen and Halifax's T. Thomason have cancelled their U.S. performances due to safety and visa issues stemming from discriminatory policies against trans artists. Larsen, poised to release a new album, explained that U.S. Immigration only recognizes gender based on assigned sex at birth, preventing him from obtaining a tour visa. He expressed the emotional toll this has taken, while fellow artists expressed solidarity. Thomason, although holding a current visa, feels unsafe crossing the U.S. border due to the political environment. Their decisions highlight the challenges faced by marginalized artists trying to perform internationally.
I received an email on Tuesday from the American Federation of Musicians stating that I am no longer able to apply for a visa because U.S. Immigration now only recognizes identification that corresponds with one's assigned sex at birth.
This is absolutely horrific and incredibly unfair. I'm so, so sorry that this is happening to you.
I just don't feel like it's worth the risk.
To put it super plainly, because I'm trans (and have an M on my passport), I can't tour in the States.
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