June is Pride month around the world, a time to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and to stand up against hatred and prejudice. 

Did you know?

We celebrate pride to mark the anniversary of a groundbreaking protest against police brutality that took place in June 1969, when police raided the Stonewall Inn in New York – a bar where gay and trans folks gathered.  

The leaders of this protest were Black and racialized trans women who bravely stood up for their rights and their very existence. Ever since, 2SLGBTQIA+ people come together to celebrate, to protest, and to show off their pride and their diverse humanity.  

Today, in Canada and around the world, 2SLGBTQIA+ workers face workplace discrimination, prejudice, hatred, and violence. Research shows that lesbian, gay, and bisexual people are more likely to earn lower incomes, experience workplace discrimination, and encounter barriers in finding jobs and accessing promotions.  

Since 2020, hate crimes targeting gender identity or expression in Canada have nearly tripled  – the majority targeting people who are intersex, trans, or agender or other non-binary gender identities or expressions. 

Solidarity is strength

CEIU has long fought for inclusion and equity in workplaces and Canadian society for all workers.  

We cannot have solidarity unless we fight against injustice and discrimination – if we are divided, we all lose.  

This year, in June and throughout the year, we encourage all our members – whether you identify as a member of a 2SLGBTQIA+ community or not – to learn, to join Pride celebrations, and to make connections with others in your workplaces and communities across differences.  

What you can do

Celebrate: Attend Pride events in your area throughout the summer.

Learn more: Check out our list of 2SLGBTQIA+ Resources and PSAC’s Gender Inclusive Language Guide and Building Trans-Inclusive Workplaces Guide.

Be an ally: Support your 2SLGBTQIA+ co-workers, friends, family, neighbours, and communities and stand up when you witness acts of prejudice, hate, and discrimination. 

Get in touch: For more information, or to find out how you can get involved, contact a member of your CEIU Human Rights Committee.