Project: Using an intersectional analysis to promote inclusion in the World of Work

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4 years ago
4 years ago

Using an intersectional analysis to promote inclusion in the World of Work

Creating safe and inclusive trade unions and workplaces free of homophobia

Vision of the project

An environment that encourages individual change in consciousness and behaviours and promotes inclusive practices and policies for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT+) workers in working towards workplaces and trade unions free of homophobia.

Mission of the project

To support Gender Coordinators in creating inclusive and safe spaces in the workplace and union where women, young people, people living with disabilities, migrant workers and LGBT workers feel free to claim and exercise their rights.

Problem statement

The alarming rate of murders targeting self-identifying lesbians in South Africa underscores ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace and within trade unions. Despite international and national commitments to safeguard the rights of LGBTQ+ workers and promote inclusivity, discrimination and harassment persist.

These issues stem from entrenched heteronormative perceptions among colleagues and employers, hindering access to the labour market for LGBTQ+ individuals. While progressive legislation has improved legal avenues for redress, it has not stopped discrimination. Many LGBTQ+ workers and job seekers still encounter bias based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

There are examples of international, national and union commitments to address inclusion. Yet union gender coordinators and activists often lack exposure to LGBTQ+ issues, which affects the inclusion missions of organisations. Limited collaboration between trade unions and LGBTQ+ organisations has led to isolated programmes, worsening the problem. We support worker organisations committed to a world of work that values diversity, equity and inclusion.

How does success look like? + Trade union gender activists have increased consciousness, passion, knowledge and skills to advocate for rights, policies, collective bargaining agreements and organisational cultural changes at a workplace and trade union level. They can challenge heteronormativity and promote inclusive practices and policies for LGBT workers.

+ More LGBT workers feel safe, secure and empowered in the trade union, workplace and when seeking employment

+ Trade unions have more inclusive gender programme that include LGBT rights.

Views of our project partners

"The Other Foundation is delighted to be supporting LRS in the creation of spaces for trade unions and their LGBTI members to discuss diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Advancing LGBTI+ rights needs to be prioritised in our society".

"ILO Convention 190 articulates the rights of all workers to be free from discrimination, violence and harassment in the world of work. Now is the time to demand real change. Trade union education programmes on LGBTI rights need to focus on changing hearts and minds."

"Homophobia limits the participation of LGBTQI people in trade union activities and has an impact on the recruitment efforts of this group of workers. Raising awareness of LGBTQI rights needs to be prioritised at all levels of our organisations".

"We are invited to apply Christian principles about injustice, violence, oppression and exclusion to LGBTI activism. Faith-based organisations need to amplify the message of inclusion and equality in society."

"FEDUSA's relentless pursuit of inclusion and diversity in the world of work inspires our affiliates to act to end homophobia and ensure equity bargaining."

"Workers who are LGBTI+ will not be able to thrive if they are denied their human rights. I'm proud to be a member of a union that works to ensure that the workplace is safe and free from homophobia."