Published: June 2, 2022

This statement is from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Pride Month 2022: 

In a storm of “don’t say gay” and aggressive targeting of trans youth which is already resulting in family separation in some states, SEIU 503 is proud to celebrate Pride Month 2022 and continue lifting the voices of our LGBTQIA2S+* members. We recognize the dignity, beauty, and power of everyone, no matter how we identify or who we love.  

Last month, SEIU 503 members joined dozens of community members at the Oregon Capitol as part of a National Day of Action to protect trans kids. Last year, our members drove Oregon’s Public Employees’ Benefits Board to adopt many of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines for transgender care. And we’re not done! 

Our efforts are member-driven, spearheaded by our Lavender Caucus. If you’re interested in joining this work, please email lavendercaucus@seiu503.org 

Throughout June, we will share the contributions of people who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ to the labor movement and our community. We look forward to learning, growing, and advancing the movement together. Join us! 

SEIU 503 Members at Oregon’s Protect Trans Kids rally 

*LGBTQIA2S+ means Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit, and the countless affirmative ways in which people choose to self-identify.