Would you like to join NMH in the Pride Parade on 1 July?

– The Norwegian Academy of Music wants to be a diverse and inclusive institution, and by participating in the Pride Parade, we show that we mean it in practice. We participate in the Pride Parade to demonstrate our view on diversity and inclusion, says Vice Principal Sidsel Karlsen.

The Norwegian Academy of Music has a diversity declaration stating that we should recognize and make room for a wide range of human, musical, social, and cultural expressions, backgrounds, competencies, and perspectives. Karlsen believes participating in the Pride Parade is a symbolic and unambiguous manifestation of our values.

– In this way, we show the world that we mean it.

Both Oslo Metropolitan University and the University of Oslo have participated in the parade and had Pride events for several years, and this year, NMH will also contribute.

Anyone who wants to can show up on Saturday, 1 July, at 12:00 PM at Grønlandsleiret. The Norwegian Academy of Music will have its banner, and students and staff can march under it if they wish.

Do you have an instrument?

Bring it along and coordinate in advance with others about what you want to play in the parade.

Pride is still controversial in some circles – what is the message to those who believe it is wrong for NMH to participate in the parade?

– Pride is a celebration of human dignity. The current management at NMH believes it is essential to show what we stand for by participating.

Sidsel emphasizes that everyone at NMH has the right to their opinion, and it is voluntary to participate. It is also voluntary whether one wants to march under the banner of the Norwegian Academy of Music.

Sidsel Karlsen understands people may be sceptical or afraid after last year's terrorist attack. – We can expect the police to conduct thorough risk assessments and have heightened awareness during the Pride Parade this year.

She emphasizes that it is more dangerous to let such actions prevail and let fear prevent us from participating.

Last year, the Norwegian Academy of Music organized "NMH på skrå" - a week of concerts and activities focused on warmth, tolerance, diversity, and freedom. This fall, there will be more events – including a chamber music week featuring music by female composers, a debate on music and power, and dedicated theme days on gender issues in music education and the music industry. NMH monitors and corrects gender distribution in committees and boards, provides follow-up to leaders, and has also created guidelines for jury work that promote diversity and equality.