UNISON, like its predecessor unions, has been at the forefront of LGBT+ inclusion for decades.
From helping to lead the fight against Section 28 and abolishing discriminatory laws against LGBT+ people in the 80s and 90s, to campaigning for equal marriage and equal pensions for same-sex partners, our LGBT+ members have shown us how activism can lead to huge social change.
Our trans, non-binary and gender diverse members have been showing how activism with UNISON can create real change – over 7,000 UNISON members are now trained in how to be good trans allies, a programme that has largely been led by the trans, non-binary and gender diverse network.
And now our asexual (ace) and aromantic (aro) members are leading the way with their activism – creating the first network of ace/aro workers in the UK trade union movement and educating us on why we should be focusing on ace/aro worker issues in the workplace.
So what can you do to show your activism in your workplace throughout LGBT+ History Month?
Run a trans ally training session in your region/branch. Get in touch with your regional education officer to arrange this. You can find out who they are here.
Make sure your workplace policies are inclusive of LGBT+ workers. We have a handy checklist at here to help you.
Make sure your workplace is inclusive of trans workers – we have a model trans equality policy here to help you negotiate with employers.
We also have a PowerPoint presentation that details our LGBT+ history and can be presented in your workplace during a lunch and learn. You can download that here.
And if you’re an LGBT+ member – get involved! Contact your regional LGBT+ contact here, and come along to a regional LGBT+ meeting. There has never been a better time to become active in UNISON.