Musicians' Defense Fund Launched for Victims of Sexual Harassment

Titled Courage Over Silence, the fund will support victims with legal fees, emergency financial relief, and more

Horn player, injury consultant, and music educator Katie A. Berglof has recently launched a GoFundMe campaign, the proceeds of which will support musicians who have been victims of sexual harassment in the industry.

Titled Courage Over Silence, the fund will provide financial assistance for legal fees and their related costs, offer emergency financial relief to survivors and whistleblowers in need, and raise awareness of systemic issues in the music industry.

In addition, the fund will help musicians establish connections with others who would like to collaborate and build a nonprofit or coalition that focuses on building better safety practices, policies, and procedures surrounding harassment and support — including the standardization of guidelines across the industry.

Berglof notes that in situations of sexual harassment, victims often come up against large institutions with significant power — as well as significant financial resources. A defense fund, therefore, can go some way towards alleviating the costs borne by victims as a result of speaking out.

You can donate to the fund here.

"For too long, the world of music — especially within music schools, orchestras, operas, music festivals, and competitions — has harbored a dark undercurrent of harassment, exploitation, and abuse," Berglof said.

"These institutions, revered for fostering artistic excellence, have also been spaces where power dynamics often go unchecked. Survivors, advocates, and whistleblowers who speak out frequently face retaliation, legal threats, and career-damaging consequences for their bravery. It is time to take a stand."

"Together, we can rally to ensure that speaking out no longer comes with insurmountable costs."

Photo courtesy of Courage Over Silence