When it comes to LGBTQIA+ rights, Australia has come a long way, including in the workplace. But there is still much progress to be made – and there is perhaps no better time to reflect on this progress than during this year’s Pride month in June.
Our FSU Pride Committee plays a key role in advocating for change for LGBTQIA+ finance workers. FSU and committee member Jayde Storm said “old-school” ways of thinking still existed in the finance sector, along with historical hurt and exclusion.
“We want our policies and guidelines to be updated to reflect us all,” said Jayde.
“We know what it’s like to not be able to present or show ourselves fully, and we look to fully recognise ourselves and our families at work.”
From expanding leave entitlements to improving best practice guidelines, it’s a busy agenda for our union’s Pride Committee.
“Australians in all sectors have worked hard over many decades to now have strong protections and rights for our LGBTQIA+ community.
“In the finance sector, we are looking towards a full rollout of gender affirmation leave for our trans and gender diverse staff.
“We also want to review our current discrimination and harassment guidelines across the industry to reflect current requirements.”
Jayde noted that it was easy to fall into the trap of complacency, especially when good progress has been made. But with LGBTQIA+ rights being rolled back or threatened around the world, Jayde said being vigilant was perhaps more important than ever before.
“It’s crucial that we connect members in our community with each other to grow our careers.
“Part of that comes from union members being visible at relevant pride events to show our workers that we can support them, as well as show our customers that we are involved.
“We are very fortunate to be able to work together to achieve positive growth for our LGBTQIA+ community, and I encourage any interested ally to reach out and contribute to our committee in whatever way you can.”
The FSU’s Pride Committee advocates for and supports LGBTQIA+ finance industry employees and customers. The committee supports members to achieve safe and open workplaces and assists members who are experiencing discrimination, harassment and exclusion at work.
If you’d like to get involved with the committee, email [email protected].
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