Fight Back, Stand Proud: Public Service Unions and LGBT+ Workers in Action

16 May 2025 Geneva, Switzerland 16 May - 16 May

Fight Back, Stand Proud: Public Service Unions and LGBT+ Workers in Action

  • 16 May - 16 May
  • Geneva, Switzerland

14:30 - 16:00 CEST

As part of IDAHOBIT 2025, the panel will bring together trade union voices and LGBT+ activists to reflect on the current challenges and urgent responses needed in the face of rising discrimination, exclusion, and anti-equality narratives. We will explore how unions can—and must—be a driving force in defending the rights, safety, and dignity of all workers, without exception.

Friday 16 May, 2.30pm-4pm CEST. Interpretation available in English, French and Spanish.

Register here.

Background

The political agenda of the far-right, rooted in capitalism, neocolonialism, and patriarchy, is intensifying systemic discrimination as a means of deepening the dispossession mechanisms. This manifests through a current trend of escalating sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, and sustained attacks on the rights of the working class.  In response and to fight back, it is imperative that the labour movement and its broader transformative social justice programme gain traction to confront and dismantle these intersecting structures of oppression.

Rooted in PSI’s 2023–2028 Programme of Action on Respect and Dignity for All, public service unions are stepping up to advance LGBT+ rights across workplaces, unions, public services, and society.

As part of IDAHOBIT 2025, the panel will bring together trade union voices and LGBT+ activists to reflect on the current challenges and urgent responses needed in the face of rising discrimination, exclusion, and anti-equality narratives. We will explore how unions can—and must—be a driving force in defending the rights, safety, and dignity of all workers, without exception.

Agenda

14:30

14:40

Welcome and introduction of the panel and speakers

14:40

15:50

Panel

●       Challenging the anti-equality narratives

●       Unions' as driving force for LGBT+ workers rights: best practices

Q&A

15:50

16:00

Closing remarks

●       LGBT+ Observer to EB

●       PSI  President and General Secretary

Creating a Safe Space

This webinar is intended to be a safe, respectful, and inclusive space for all participants, particularly LGBT+ workers. We are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and heard.

Any form of discrimination, harassment, hate speech, or disrespectful behavior will not be accepted. Participants who do not respect these principles may be immediately removed from the platform without prior warning.

By joining this webinar, you agree to uphold these values and contribute to a positive and supportive environment for all.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.