STAND UP FOR GAY RIGHTS

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: november/december 2011 :: RMTnews 27 RMT had three delegates to this year’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) TUC conference myself, Alan Bell and Richard Veitch. Numerous apologies were received owing to industrial action against the cuts being imposed by the government. All in attendance gave a standing ovation for all those on picket lines to show support from conference. The main theme from all groups, various unions and activists was the attacks being made by the present coalition government. The message that was that the future of LGBT rights is under threat from lack of support through cuts in funding in various projects and services. Labour MP Yvette Cooper addressed conference but did not receive a warm reception when she attacked the strike action being carried out by trade unionists. When asked what action should be taken or indeed what the solution was, no real solution came forward. Conference raised concerns about police service funding cuts and the effect of having fewer officers to attend in cases of hate crimes and the less likelihood of people reporting such crimes. Without such reporting hate-crime statistics will be inaccurate and without proper monitoring further cuts to groups involved in support of victims could be cut. Conference backed a motion slamming the coalition government for fostering a progressive image on LGBT equality while carrying out unprecedented attacks on the rights of LGBT workers and provision for LGBT service users. Conference called on TUC and affiliates to work with their LGBT groups to: • Highlight attacks on LGBT workers and services • Maintain a high profile commitment to LGBT equality in all negotiating, organisation and campaigning • Campaign against the erosion of the equalities agenda • Defend services that meet the needs of all An emergency motion was also carried in opposition to ‘LGBT conversion therapy’ in Northern Ireland. RMT member Elizabeth Fraser reports on this year’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender TUC conference TUC Conference STAND UP FOR GAY RIGHTS RMT stall at Sunderland gay pride