The United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall, together with the USW LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, has issued a statement to mark Pride Month. The statement highlights the union’s commitment to civil and human rights, emphasizing the protection of LGBTQ+ workers.
“USW members at our recent Constitutional Convention recommitted ourselves to the fight for civil and human rights, including protecting LGBTQ+ workers – a fight that is as important now as ever,” McCall stated.
The statement also addresses growing concerns over increasing attacks on marginalized communities in both the United States and Canada. “We are witnessing increasing attacks in both the United States and Canada on the rights of marginalized people, depriving many in our societies of their fundamental freedom to live their everyday lives without fear and oppression.”
McCall stressed the responsibility of labor activists and citizens to support those who seek peaceful lives. “It’s on us, as labor activists and as citizens, to stand up for those who only want to live in peace. And whether it’s at the bargaining table, in the halls of our elected officials, or in our communities, we will use our power to defend those who face ignorance and abuse.”
He further affirmed that turning away from foundational principles is not an option for the union. “We will never turn our backs on our founding principles or on our fellow siblings. It is not the union way, and we won’t be taken in by a cruel distraction that weakens our movement and drives wedges in our democracies.”
In conclusion, McCall reiterated a renewed commitment during Pride Month: “Instead, this Pride Month, we recommit ourselves to justice and dignity for all.”
The USW represents 850,000 workers across various industries including metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and energy production. The union also includes an increasing number of workers from health care, public sector roles, higher education institutions, tech companies and service occupations.
