Usdaw is raising the issues affecting non-binary workers and promoting the need for positive action to ensure that non-binary workers are able to be themselves at work and in their unions.
Paddy Lillis – Usdaw General Secretary says: “People who identify as non-binary are more likely to suffer abuse, violence and harassment and are more likely to be discriminated against in the workplace. Many have been physically attacked and verbally abused in public places including the workplace leading many non-binary people to hide their identity.
“Trade union workplace reps are at the forefront of delivering on equality issues for our members. From conversations I have had with reps, I know that they are keen to better understand what it means to be non-binary and what practical steps they can take to make workplaces safe and inclusive for non-binary workers. However it isn’t always easy because non-binary people are not well represented in public life, in the media or in workplaces and communities. A lack of understanding reinforces invisibility, discrimination and stigma.
“The experts on non-binary issues are non-binary people themselves, but raising awareness, tackling LGBT+ phobia and driving forward change in the workplace should not be left to them alone. We have to work together as a movement. So Usdaw has published a leaflet explaining ‘gender identity’ and how to support members in the workplace. We are also working alongside the TUC promoting their online learning module on some simple steps we can all take to make workplaces safer and more accepting of non-binary members.”
Usdaw is asking the TUC to:
- Support affiliates in their work to promote awareness of non-binary issues specifically and gender identity more broadly .
- Share examples of effective training, campaigning and collective bargaining tools.
- Continue to ensure the voice and experience of non-binary activists and members remain at the centre of their campaigning and educational work on this issue.
Notes for editors:
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK's fifth biggest trade union with around 360,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades.
Supporting non-binary members in the workplace: https://www.usdaw.org.uk/Help-Advice/Equalities/LGBT/What-does-non-binary-mean
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