New fund aims to support emerging trans, 2-spirit and non-binary musicians
Music Nova Scotia and the Dawn Fund have teamed up to introduce a groundbreaking bursary program aimed at supporting transgender, two-spirit, and non-binary musicians. This initiative comes at a critical time when queer artists are facing increasing discrimination and obstacles in their careers.
The Dawn Fund Bursary program is the first of its kind in Canada, specifically designed to assist emerging artists who identify as trans, two-spirit, or non-binary. It offers full coverage of up to $2,000 for artist development activities such as sound recording, video production, marketing, and promotion. Additionally, participants may be eligible for an additional $2,000 for touring and showcasing opportunities. The Dawn Fund has allocated $4,000 for the inaugural year of the program, with Music Nova Scotia matching the amount.
Shelley Thompson, the founder of the Dawn Fund and a renowned actor and filmmaker, emphasized the importance of supporting marginalized artists. Following the success of her award-winning film “Dawn, Her Dad & the Tractor,” which explores the journey of a young trans woman reconnecting with her estranged father, Thompson established the Dawn Fund to provide resources for trans and gender-diverse individuals.
Julien Davis, a clinical social worker and advocate for gender-affirming care, joined the Dawn Fund’s advisory committee to contribute his expertise and support the initiative. He highlighted the significance of promoting joy and representation for trans and gender-diverse individuals through music and the arts, underscoring the vital role of funding in empowering marginalized communities.
Recent incidents, such as musician T. Thomason withdrawing from a music festival due to safety concerns as a Canadian trans artist, underscore the ongoing challenges faced by queer musicians. Despite increasing discrimination and bureaucratic hurdles, initiatives like the Dawn Fund Bursary program aim to provide tangible support and opportunities for trans, two-spirit, and non-binary artists.
Music Nova Scotia’s Executive Director, Allegra Swanson, expressed the association’s commitment to inclusivity and support for marginalized artists, affirming their dedication to providing funding and resources for the trans, two-spirit, and non-binary community. The partnership between Music Nova Scotia and the Dawn Fund reflects a positive step towards amplifying the voices and talents of underrepresented artists.
Applications for the Dawn Fund Bursary program are currently open until June 15, 2025, offering trans, two-spirit, and non-binary musicians the opportunity to access financial support for their artistic endeavors. The program aims to foster a more inclusive and equitable music industry, celebrating the diverse contributions of all artists regardless of gender identity.
