June is a month to remember and celebrate. We celebrate Pride across the country as a welcome opportunity for all of us, regardless of our sexual identity to acknowledge and celebrate our differences. It is also a chance to remember the struggles in the past for acceptance and equality and to realize that there is still much work to do in and on behalf of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.
Some of that work needs to take place within our Union to continue to fight homophobia and transphobia wherever we find it. And to be allies for our gay, bi, and trans friends and colleagues at work and within our society. Small acts like displaying a rainbow flag on your desk or as background on Zoom will let them know that you are an ally. Speaking out on their behalf and to support their rights will always be welcome.
We also join with our Indigenous friends and neighbours to commemorate National Indigenous History Month. During this month, we take time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada. We have much to learn from Indigenous people and this month is a great time to enhance our knowledge and understanding of their language, culture and ways of living.
Part of that understanding is to acknowledge our dark past when it comes to how we have treated Indigenous people since we became a country. Residential schools, taking children away from their families during the 60’s Scoop and a long history of racism and discrimination in employment, housing and health care must be owned by all of us. And we must make a personal and collective commitment to healing and positive change today and into the future.
Our Union must be an inclusive one and the Union of Health and Environment Workers stands shoulder to shoulder with the Indigenous and 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities in their continuing fight for equality and justice. You can show your support by waving your Pride flag proudly or by attending Pride marches and events in your own community. You can also attend public celebrations of National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21 to show your support and allyship for Indigenous people.
On behalf of the Union of Health and Environment Workers, Happy Pride and Happy National Indigenous History Month. Let’s celebrate and remember together.
As always, drop me a line or email any time.
Help us build UHEW together!!
In solidarity,
Shimen Fayad
shimen.fayad@uhew-stse.ca