As a musician and singer-songwriter, I have been increasingly alarmed by the rise in repression of artists who use their music and their platform to promote human rights. 

 

We are witnessing an infringement on our freedom of expression, a right which should be granted unconditionally to all of us, regardless of our occupation. 

 

This petition is a call for the protection of our right to express ourselves without fear of retribution by the government or arts organisations. 

 

I particularly mention:

 

1) the case of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra cancelling performances by pianist Jayson Gillham in 2024  [See this ABC News report] 

 

2) this week, jazz artist Kellee Green similarly having her performance cancelled by Brisbane City Council along with the same Council pulling funding from the Queensland Music Awards because of Kellee's acceptance speech when she won a QMusic award [See ABC News].

 

According to statistics from Human Rights Watch, restrictions on freedom of speech have been on a significant rise worldwide.

 

This disturbing trend, targeting musicians, painters, poets, and ordinary people, stifles our universal right to create, innovate, and voice our opinion fearlessly. We strongly condemn any form of government repression or intimidation that suppresses freedom of expression and the arts.

We implore legislators and decision-makers in Australia to implement stronger protective measures that affirm and respect our democratic right to freedom of speech and expression.

 

Please sign this petition now to uphold and protect artistic freedom and to stop the repression of voices in the arts.

 

(Photo of singer-songwriter duo Mundy-Turner by Christy Gallois.)