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Sexual diversity in the workplace, it pays off!, highlights the positive aspects of sexual diversity in the workplace as well as its benefits for employers, companies, institutions and workers alike.
Ottawa (17 May 2012) – On May 17, the International Day against Homophobia, the 340,000-member National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) urges union members and the general public to stand in solidarity with lesbians, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) communities.
May 17 is marked each year on the anniversary of the World Health Organisation’s decision decategorize homosexuality as a mental disorder. The day was originally organized in 2003 by the Québec group Fondation Émergence, which was soon successful at elevating it to the international level. This year rainbow balloons are being released in Russia, Estonia, Ukraine, Germany and Iran building on the movement that continues to grow.
Until 1969, it was a crime to be gay in Canada. Even today, we continue to see hate crimes committed, young people bullied and gay-straight alliances in schools are still being banned. We have far to go in ensuring everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
This year, Fondation Émergence's theme Sexual diversity in the workplace, it pays off!, highlights the positive aspects of sexual diversity in the workplace as well as its benefits for employers, companies, institutions and workers alike. Discrimination costs a lot through reduced productivity, increased sick time and staff turnover. Creating a safe, welcoming work environment leads to a more rewarding work experience for everyone.
We must reaffirm our on-going fight against homophobia and transphobia, continue the work for equality and celebrate the contributions made by gays and lesbians to society. Not just on May 17, but every day.
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NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE