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FRINGE EVENT
Just a reminder that the joint Equality Fringe Event is taking place on Wednesday straight after conference ends. The theme is Hate Crime and the speakers include Stop Hate UK and National Union of Journalists.
The event will be in Syndicate Room 2 and flyers will be available from the Equality Stalls from Tuesday at ADC.
Please come along to the fringe event and encourage as many LGBT members to come along too and to ask relevant questions regarding LGBT Hate Crime issues.
Make sure you include @PCS_Proud when tweeting etc… so those who can’t attend ADC can still join in the debate!
International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia
(IDAHOBT) – 17th May 2013
Many people suffer homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in the workplace, in society, even in their own homes. Many people suffer homophobia, biphobia and transphobia by being put to death for being who they are, being imprisoned for being who they are and being tortured simply for being who they are.
Would you torture a family member if they told you they were, for example, gay?
PCS Proud continues to work tirelessly to promote equality for LGBT people, demanding an end to LGBT phobic attitudes in the workplace and society in general. We are proud to stand with other organisations and work towards eradicating LGBT Phobia not just in the UK but internationally.
There is something you can do to help. Why don’t you encourage colleagues to challenge LGBT phobic attitudes in the workplace, even if you don’t identify as LGBT. Why don’t you write to your MP and tell them of your disgust at countries that continue to outlaw being LGB or T. Join organisations that stand up for equality for all, tell people about the work that these organisations are doing and encourage everyone you know to get involved too.
Take part in, or organise a vigil in memory of those who have lost their lives or suffered for being themselves. If you need help setting one up why not get in touch with your regional Proud rep. You can get in touch by emailing Proud@pcs.org.uk
Check out the PCS Proud Website for updates on IDAHOBT events taking place in your area.
Also, why not send in your pictures of IDAHOBT events and an article to secretary@pcsproud.org.uk so we can get them on the website or in the magazine.
Get in touch and be Proud to be who you are.
Scotland Rep successfully elected to STUC LGBT Committee
Our Scottish Rep, Debbie Baird, was elected to the Scottish Trade Union Congress (STUC) LGBT Committee. Debbie gave PCS Proud an exclusive interview about the role.
How long has the STUC LGBT Committee been in existence?
The STUC LGBT Committee was formed in September 2012, after a motion was put forward by PCS. It is the final piece of the equality ‘jigsaw’and was the only strand not to have a dedicated committee.
Is this your first year on the committee?
Yes, I was elected at the 2nd conference, which took place on 11th & 12th May 2013 (it was moved from Sept to May as it was felt this was a better time for conferences). My Proud co-rep last year, Gordon, was on the previous committee, but it was decided that this position was best held by the Proud rep so after Gordon stepped down it was the logical progression.
What is the remit of the committee?
The committee is to action the motions carried at conference as voted by delegates, helping to improve the working lives of LGBT people throughout Scotland, and tackle homophobia and transphobia in the workplace and wider society. The committee is tasked with speaking to ministers about policies and working closely with campaigning groups to ensure positive changes are made.
What work do you want the committee to undertake?
I would like to see the committee keep their profile high and ensure LGBT equality is on everyone’s radar. I would especially like the committee to make sure the currently empty Trans seat does not remain empty for long. I have already started work on this and hopefully will be my firstsuccess, watch this space……
Are you going to be able to ask the STUC LGBT Committee to support Proud To?
Of course, that is a great idea. One can only ask……….
How does your role on the STUC Committee impact on your role within PCS and in particular, PCS Proud?
The sky is the limit with this. It will allow me to see first hand how other unions operate, share best practice and get stuck in when in comes to changing policy. It is a big responsibility as the eyes of LGBT members in Scotland are upon me. Holding the dual role of PCS Proud Rep for Scotland and STUC LGBT Committee member ensures there is a single point of contact for PCS members in Scotland, and will make it easierto make real changes.
Steve Heyward – PCS Proud Secretary says “PCS Proud is pleased to have such a talented, committed activist elected to the STUC LGBT Committee. PCS is well known for having a good organising approach and for fighting to defend our members’ rights, it is brilliant that we have a voice on the STUC LGBT Committee for the second year in a row.”
