This year’s theme seeks to encourage advocacy and celebrations in many forms. In a time where the progress made by LGBT+ communities is increasingly at risk; it is crucial to recognise the power of solidarity across different identities and movements. When we unite, we can really bring about change!
 
Paddy Lillis – Usdaw General Secretary says: “Harassment is one of the biggest problems our LGBT+ members face in the workplace. The Equality Act makes it clear that harassment, including so called ‘jokes’, is unlawful. Employers must deal with any incidents quickly and effectively and take reasonable steps to prevent them happening in the first place.
 
“Too many LGBT+ workers still don’t feel safe enough to be out about their sexual orientation or gender identity at work. Harassment of LGBT+ workers is a trade union issue, so we very much welcome this year’s theme of unity and solidarity. Harassment creates dangerous workplaces that harm everyone. Usdaw believes that everyone has a right to a safe and supportive working environment free from fear of harassment or discrimination.
 
“We campaign all year round to tackle harassment at work, encouraging activists and members to ‘call it out’. We also work with employers to negotiate workplace policies and procedures that aim to prevent harassment and ensure incidents are dealt with fairly, quickly and confidentially. Today, on IDAHOTB, we put the spotlight on homophobia, transphobia and biphobia, standing together with our LGBT+ colleagues speaking out against harassment at work.”
 
Notes for editors:
 
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK's fifth biggest trade union with over 350,000 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 www.usdaw.org.uk
 
Usdaw LGBT campaigning: https://www.usdaw.org.uk/Help-Advice/Equalities/LGBT
 
Usdaw’s ‘call it out campaign’ against sexual harassment: https://www.usdaw.org.uk/Campaigns/Sexual-Harassment
 
For Usdaw press releases visit: http://www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Twitter @UsdawUnion