Get to Know OPEIU Local 2’s LGBTQIA+ Committee!

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Did you know that OPEIU Local 2 has a committee specifically focused on issues impacting workers that identify within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other gender and sexual orientation expansive communities?
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OPEIU Local 2’s LGBTQIA+ Committee was rebooted a few years ago and looks to continue its work within the Local. Union members who care about these issues or who are just looking for other LGBTQIA+ folx to chat with within the Local are encouraged to reach out to committee chair, Chelsea Bland, to learn more about how to get involved. Read more below!

So, what does the committee do?

The OPEIU Local 2 LGBTQIA+ Committee is responsible for:

• Educating OPEIU Local 2 leaders, stewards, activists and members about the issues impacting LGBTQIA+ workers
• Incorporating LGBTQIA+ inclusive language in all shop contracts
• Building relationships with LGBTQIA+ community groups and labor organizations
• Engaging in LGBTQIA+ related community service activities

 
Over the years this has shown up as trainings at the Local, content creation for the Local’s communications channels, participating and fundraising for Whitman Walker Health’s Walk to End HIV, attending Pride at Work’s triennial convention & sharing training materials with the Local, hosting a virtual trivia night during LGBTQ History Month, and sharing updates & announcements at quarterly membership meetings.

​And there is certainly room to grow!

Would you like to join the committee or know someone who would?
Committee members can expect to spend 1 - 3 hours a month supporting the committee responsibilities listed above and dreaming up new ways to engage Local 2 members on the issues brought up in last year’s survey.

If this sounds like you OR you can think of a colleague or two who’d be interested in getting more involved with the Local and joining this committee, please contact OPEIU Local 2 LGBTQIA+ Committee Chair Chelsea Bland at [email protected]!