We have had many reasons to celebrate the last few years. Equality issues for lesbian, gay,
bisexual, transgender and transsexual (LGBTT) people have successfully moved forward through the courts and
federal and provincial governments. This is because of the work of unions like CUPW and many other
organizations and individuals. Much remains to be done, especially on gender identity
discrimination. And gains are always precarious. The attacks on women’s rights by the Harper
government are a stark reminder of what a hostile government can do.
The struggle for equality internationally
The situation is much worse in other countries. A report released by the International Lesbian and
Gay Association (ILGA) states, “In 2007, no less than 85 member states of the United Nations still
criminalize consensual same sex acts among adults, thus institutionally promoting a culture of hatred.”
It goes on to say, “Although many of the countries listed in the report do not systematically implement those
laws, their mere existence reinforces a culture where a significant portion of the citizens need to hide from
the rest of the population out of fear.”
Fighting for equality at home
Unfortunately, the two recent murders in Nova Scotia remind us why many of our LGBTT members still live in
fear and may decide to not “come out” in their communities or workplaces.
Our workplaces and union functions need to be safe and welcoming to LGBTT members. We all need to ensure
LGBTT members are encouraged to become activists and leaders in our union.
Taking to the streets with Pride
Pride events will be held in many of our communities over the next couple of months (see list of events on
the back of this bulletin). Our participation in those events tells members we are allies: We stand up
for human rights and understand the importance of building a stronger more diverse union that is able to
challenge employers and government.
The introduction in the ILGA report ends with the following: “The fight for the respect of every minority
has to be everyone’s fight. We believe that the recognition of sexual minorities as civil components of
our societies and the acknowledgement of the equality of their human rights can contribute to learning how to
live together, that is, the learning of democracy.”
