
Yesterday, Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre was asked about newly-elected American President Donald Trump’s proclamation that the country will only recognize two genders – male and female. Mr. Poilievre boldly agreed and said that he was only aware of two genders. The clip is also making rounds on social media platforms such as Tik tok.
UNE strongly condemns this viewpoint. “It saddens me that this rhetoric is being so blatantly flaunted by someone who aspires to be the leader of our government,” said Alisha Kang, UNE National President. “Canada has its own values and for everyone who has worked so hard to create space for all people we don’t want to see those gains rolled back. We will not be discouraged. Everyone deserves a safe, inclusive workplace. UNE will continue to ensure all feel welcome.”
The Union of National Employees is strongly devoted to safeguarding, promoting and advancing human rights. While all unions have a rich history of advocating for human rights, our members are especially proud of our dedication to this cause. In essence, we believe diversity is richness; our membership’s diversity is a core element of what helps us grow and move forward.
Please reach out to your union siblings, including members of your Human Rights Committee. `
Other available resources:
- Your departmental Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Find your organization’s Employee Assistance Program provider – Canada.ca
- Public Sector Pride Network (PSPN) Gender Expression and Identity Committee: A safe place for trans, gender-diverse, and non-binary employees to connect and support each other. If you would like to join this committee, email us : pspn-rffp@csps-efpc.gc.ca
- Organizational Pride Network Contacts: Connect with your local or national Pride Network or Positive Space Ambassadors for community and support.
In addition to these. you can reach out to a trusted colleague, a mentor, a mental health or community-based resource available to you, such as:
- Trans Lifeline: (support for transgender people by transgender people) 1-877-330-6366
- LGBT Youth Line: Text 647-694-4275
- Interligne : (Services d’écoute, d’intervention et de sensibilisation pour la communauté LGBTQ+) Téléphone + texto 1-888-505-1010
- Aide aux Trans du Québec : (soutien pour les personnes trans, non binaires et en questionnement) 1-855-909-9038