To: Simon Cowell and X Factor
Get rid of gendered groups on X Factor
There were 6.2 million viewers of X factor on 2nd September 2017.
200,000 people auditioned in 2009(series 6)
For the first 3 series there were no gendered groups: 16-24s, over 25s, and groups. It would make much more sense to revert back to this system (albeit 14-24s) so that gender fluid and other non-binary individuals aren't forced into 'boys' and 'girls' categories and can still show their singing potential. It's not the world that's being asked for, it's a system that was in place in 2006. It's ironic that a decade ago was fairer and less focused on putting people in boxes, which is what many of us are campaigning to do.
200,000 people auditioned in 2009(series 6)
For the first 3 series there were no gendered groups: 16-24s, over 25s, and groups. It would make much more sense to revert back to this system (albeit 14-24s) so that gender fluid and other non-binary individuals aren't forced into 'boys' and 'girls' categories and can still show their singing potential. It's not the world that's being asked for, it's a system that was in place in 2006. It's ironic that a decade ago was fairer and less focused on putting people in boxes, which is what many of us are campaigning to do.
Why is this important?
The bigger picture is the demographic of the X Factor is huge. It's not just a UK show, having been broadcast in Asia, South America, Europe, New Zealand, the US. By not having gendered categories it globally shows that you can be comfortable in your own skin and shouldn't have to hide behind a label that you don't belong to. What seems like a meaningless thing could be holding someone back from taking the stage.
