Nemo, the nonbinary Swiss artist who won the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, is using their platform to advocate for transgender rights following a controversial ruling in the United Kingdom. They have taken to social media to share information on how people in the UK can contact their Members of Parliament to oppose a recent Supreme Court decision that restricts access for transgender women to women’s spaces such as toilets, hospital wards, and sports teams.
The ruling, which defines a woman for legal purposes as someone born biologically female, still affirms protections for transgender individuals against discrimination. However, LGBTQ+ advocates argue that the decision marks a step backward for trans rights.
Nemo, whose win at Eurovision with the song “The Code” made history as the contest’s first nonbinary champion, emphasized the emotional weight of the current moment for transgender people. “It’s a very tough time emotionally,” they said. “All we want is to live openly, without fear or having to hide who we are.”
Through both their music and activism, Nemo has become a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. “A big thing for me is talking about my queer experience in my music, but also standing up for what I believe in and encouraging others to do the same,” they said.
Nemo called the UK ruling an “attack on trans+ rights” that will affect the broader community, not just transgender individuals. Despite the setbacks, they remain hopeful.
“I don’t think trans rights are going backwards,” they said. “Sometimes things get worse before they get better, but I believe people are increasingly ready for empathy and understanding.”
As Nemo prepares to perform during this year’s Eurovision events in Switzerland, they continue to use their spotlight to push for greater equality. The Eurovision Grand Final is set to take place on May 17 at St. Jakobshalle in Basel.