Unity in Diversity

In the workplace union members seek to be visible, vocal and valued but for some workers being visible is a risk - not a right they are afforded.

Out@PSA seeks to be an active presence in the union and communities to promote diverse, respectful and inclusive workplaces.

As a network we come together to offer support and representation to members across the spectrum of sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. Our goal is to allow members to go to work as their whole selves, with dignity and without compromise.

CHALLENGING PREJUDICES

The ambition and purpose of much of Out@PSA’s work is to challenge the prejudices and ignorance that still exist in workplaces and New Zealand society.

The union movement and queer activism aren’t strange bedfellows as our core work is the same. Queer activism is transformative. The work of the union movement is transformative.

Both activist movements stand together in their desire to build stronger communities and influence public opinion. Out@PSA keeps a foot in both camps, lifting up our members and communities through the work of both.

NETWORK BUILDING

Jacob Crown, Out@PSA Convenor

Our network has been simmering away lately looking to ensure the foundations are growing. 

Beyond getting out and visible at Pride events we’ve been looking at strategies to build our network members up to be champions in their workplace and ensuring the PSA continues to be an inclusive and welcoming union for all.

We want our members to feel confident as rainbow workers but we also want them to use their passion to leave their workplaces and the union movement better. To this end we have begun exploring model clauses and how measures like the Rainbow Standard, which the PSA assisted in developing, may be used.

STAND WITH US

The work of Out@PSA is for everyone. We often come together under the banner ‘an injury to one is an injury to all,’ standing proud as champions of equality.

For these positions to hold weight we need to make sure that among us can be found the full spectrum of the rainbow workforce.

So go out and build solidarity with our communities. Meet us at the Pride festivals and events happening across the country. Stand with your rainbow colleagues by challenging ignorance and prejudice in your workplace.

Contact us at out@psa.org.nz to get involved.

Nā Caleb Gordon
Out@psa Convenor