About ASLEF
LGBT Equality
The LGBT Representative Committee is for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender members.
ASLEF welcomed the recent Civil Partnership legislation and the forthcoming legislation that will give protection to LGB people in their procurement of goods and services. But we are continuing to campaign for transgender people to be included in the legislation.
Other campaigns include the campaign for equality in pension's benefits for all same sex partners. We have had some success in this as the Railways Pension's Fund Trustees have acknowledged the rights of Civil Partners.
Homophobic bullying and harassment is also an important issue for the committee and they provide a very useful focal point for members who may be experiencing such problems. It is recognised that many of our lesbian and gay members may not be "out" at work and the committee provides a confidential mailing list for members who may wish to receive information confidentially. It is hoped that the existence of the committee will give some members the confidence to "come out" to their work mates without the fear of harassment or bullying taking place.
The confidential mailing list for LGBT members is the main way of getting information out about matters of interest to those members. The mailing list is held by the Equalities Administrator at ASLEF Head Office and promises complete confidentiality to all those on the list. Mailings go out periodically and advises LGBT members of events and information that may be of use to them. You do not need to be 'out' at work to go on to the mailing list. If you want to add your details contact Head Office on 0207 317 8600.
The committee have also been working on the ASLEF HIV/AIDS policy that was produced some time ago by ASLEF activist Jim Peters. This excellent workplace policy is being condensed into a smaller pamphlet, which will 'signpost' any Rep or member who needs support, advice or information on this issue. This is particularly important because people with HIV/AIDS are now protected from discrimination by the Government's disability legislation. The work has been done in conjunction with ASLEF's Black and Ethnic Minority Consultative Committee (BEMCC).
The committee publishes a newsletter entitled 'Facing Points'.
LGBT Representative Committee Aims and Objectives:
The LGBT Representative Committee aims to represent the interests of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender members of ASLEF and underlines the fundamental belief of this trade union that everyone has the right to be treated fairly and with respect.
We are opposed to all forms of harassment, bullying and victimisation and are committed to achieving a workplace free from such practices.
We will strive to eradicate prejudice and discrimination.
We aim to achieve change through education and to offer advice, information and support to all members in confidence."
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Advice for Lesbian and Gay Equality from the TUC - 'The TUC has long campaigned for true equality for gay people in every aspect of their lives. Lord Alli's goods and services amendment to the Equality Bill will ensure that lesbians and gay men can no longer be turned away or refused services by companies that discriminate against gay people as customers' said TUC General Secretary Brenadan Barber. Click here for more details.
LGBT Equality in 2007
ASLEF/FBU LGBT Weekend School - this years school took place at Wortley Hall in Sheffield from the 19th to 21st October. Martin Allard was there for the weekend, to read his report click here.
The TUC LGBT Committee meeting was attended by Susan Greenwell, ASLEF's LGBT National Secretary and TUC LGBT Committee member. Read her report on the meeting, click here.
Congratulations Susan!
Congratulations are due to Susan Greenwell who was successfully re-elected to the TUC LGBT Committee during the 2007 TUC LGBT Conference on 28th and 29th June. Susan’s vote was the second highest which shows the support she has and is an indication of the excellent reputation she has amongst delegates and the other committee members.
Susan also fought off opposition from the UCU union who opposed ASLEF’s motion on Iraq. Susan returned to the rostrum with a searing right of reply and received a big cheer from the delegates. The motion was then carried overwhelmingly – with only the UCU voting against.
Susan and the other delegates, Ben Wallington, Darran Brown, Zoi Kakouris and visitor Neil Adams along with Equalities Adviser Sharon Allen received a huge cheer when they marched the ASLEF LGBT banner round to the nearest CWU picket to Congress House on Friday 29th June.
The picket was well supported by the conference delegates and a scab post office van was sent on its way with a resounding chorus of boos. A full report of the conference and the Pride Rally to follow soon.
LGBT Equality in 2006
ASLEF at the 2006 TUC LGBT Conference - Read a full report of the TUC LGBT Conference by delegate Chris Brown.
WEAR YOU BADGE WITH PRIDE - ASLEF LAUNCHES NEW LGBT BADGE IN TIME FOR LGBT HISTORY MONTH 2006
At February's ASLEF LGBT Consultative Committee (LGBTRC), the new ASLEF badge celebrating our lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender membership was launched.
Keith Norman, General Secretary when he was presenting former Committee members Dave Bacon and Neil Adams with tankards in recognition of all their work on the Committee said that he thought the badges would be a valuable addition to ASLEF's collection of beautiful badges that have been produced over the years.
National Organiser, Andy Reed, who organised the production of the badges said he was happy to have the work of the LGBTCC recognised through the badges and it is an indication to our members and the rest of the labour movement how seriously ASLEF takes its equalities work.
The badge is available free to ASLEF members on request from Head Office.
