June is Pride Month, a time to honour 2SLGBTQ+ accomplishments and recognize the social justice work that still needs to be done. Pride month is also an important time to reflect on our role as a union in ensuring all CEIU Members and our community allies are safe, well-supported and feel a strong sense of belonging and connectedness.

This past year has seen an increase in violence, harassment and exclusion against 2SLGBTQ+ communities, from drag story time events being targeted by the far-right, to the denial of gender-affirming health care, to recent anti-2SLGBTQ+ bills passed around the world. It is now more important than ever that we stand up against hate, intolerance, and bigotry in all forms for everyone, and support the most marginalized members of 2SLGBTQ+ communities, including Indigenous, Black, racialized, trans, non-binary, and people living with disabilities.

How can you help?

• Speak up in the workplace.
• Attend rallies, parades, etc.
• Raise awareness by including pronouns in your email signature, Teams profile, etc.
• Pressure the employer and your local, provincial and federal governments to continue to prioritize safety and inclusion of 2SLGBTQ+ people.
• Challenge stereotypes and prejudices
• Educate yourself.

In the face of a rising tide of homophobia and transphobia in communities across the country and around the world, Pride 2023 is a reminder that 2SLGBTQ+ people will not be silenced, and that love conquers hate.

Did you know…

2SLGBTQIA+

2S: Two-Spirit

L: Lesbian

G: Gay

B: Bisexual

T: Transgender

Q: Queer

I: Intersex

A: Asexual

+: Encompasses other identities under the rainbow umbrella.

In addition to the six colors of the original Rainbow Flag, this flag includes five arrow-shaped lines acknowledging groups that have been historically left out of Pride events. The black and brown stripes represent members of the Black, Indigenous, and racialized 2SLGBTQ+ communities. The pink, light blue, and white stripes incorporate the colours of the Transgender Pride flag. The purple circle and yellow triangle represent the Intersex community.