Showing off our Steel Pride!

The summer Pride season is a necessary time to make community connections, build the union and support two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and asexual (2SLGBTQIA+) members and their families.

Here are three ways Steelworker members and local unions can get involved as allies or Steel Pride members.

1. Participate in Pride events
   • Organize a delegation from your local union to march in local Pride parades or participate in festivals and events. This is an excellent way for members to attend who may be 2SLGBTQIA+, but may not feel comfortable yet being out with their co-workers.
   • Host a booth at Pride festivals to provide information about union advocacy and support for 2SLGBTQIA+ workers.
   • Order USW pride merchandise to wear and to give to members and people in the community.
   • Sponsor or co-sponsor Pride-related events. The 2SLGBTQIA+ community always appreciates the support and great allies!
     
2. Engage in community outreach
   • Partner with 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations on joint initiatives, such as educational workshops or advocacy campaigns.
   • Volunteer or provide financial support to local 2SLGBTQIA+ charities and shelters.
     
3. Educate and train union members
   • Offer diversity and inclusion training to union members and leadership.
   • Establish a Human Rights Committee or Steel Pride caucus to address 2SLGBTQIA+ issues in the workplace.
   • Develop materials that educate members about 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and workplace protections.

If you are a 2SLBTQIA+ Steelworker and want to connect with other rainbow community members, our national Steel Pride Working Group wants to hear from you. The working group holds three national Steel Pride Network meetings a year; the next one is coming up in the fall. Please stay tuned. If you want more information, please get in touch with communications@usw.ca

For more resources and great ideas, please visit: usw.ca/steelpride

Did you know?

Local union participation in small-city pride events allows for a more direct and visible connection with the community.

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