Every June, SEIU 503 members celebrate Pride Month. It’s a time for us all to recognize and celebrate the LGBTQIAS2S+ community’s contributions to our union, the labor movement, our great state, and the world.
There is no question that attacks on the LGBTQIA2S+ community are getting worse – we see it in state legislatures, on social media, and through escalating culture wars. We are seeing increased targeting of LGBTQIA2S+ people, particularly transgender people. We must recognize that this is not just a time for celebration. From Bud Light to Target, companies that try to be inclusive are experiencing extreme pushback. Here in Oregon, the state Senate has been abandoned by its minority party in part because they refuse to respect the rights of trans people. An overwhelming number of trans members say they feel this hate and discrimination in the workplace every day.
As a union, SEIU 503 will not tolerate this injustice. We remain in solidarity with our LGBTQIA2S+ members and use our power to support and advocate on their behalf. Led by our Lavender Caucus, we listen to these voices and work together to make our union and our world a fair and safe place for all.
Our challenge to ourselves and to all is to use this Pride Month to recognize LGBTQIA2S+ people and actively fight for fairness, equality, and what is right. We ask you to join us.