UNISON fights discrimination and prejudice in the workplace on behalf of its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) members. A key priority is to promote LGBT visibility in workplaces by supporting people to be out in work. As part of that UNISON takes part in Belfast, Newry & Foyle Pride every year as well as running a number of LGBT themed events. We are an active member of the Health & Social Care LGBT Staff Forum. We are committed to the introduction of marriage equality to Northern Ireland.
We produce a regular ebulletin for LGBT members which includes information on social events, news items, research, conferences and training opportunities. To sign up to our confidential email list, please send your details to L.OHara@unison.co.uk
Belfast Pride 2023
Belfast Pride 2020
2019 News
Alternative Eurovision Evening - May
UNISON LGBT in partnership with the Derry Palestinian Solidarity Group organised a very successful and lively Alternative Eurovision Night in Derry at the end of May which raised over £5000 for Medical Aid for Palestine and a local solidarity organisation. The event was streamed live and UNISON Solidarity group in Belfast had a festive evening with the live stream.
Marriage Equality Rally - May
Once again thousands of UNISON members came out to support the 4th Marriage Equality rally in Belfast. UNISON had a great presence at the event and were very visible in media coverage. We would like to thank all those branches who attended and hopefully we won’t have to do it again next year.
Murder of Lyra McKee
Like many others we were shocked at the murder of Lyra McKee by the Real IRA. Lyra was an ardent campaigner for LGBT+ rights and also had delivered training as part of our education programme. UNISON recently supported the walk from Belfast to Derry to highlight the failure to deliver the Good Friday Agreement and Fidelma walked 35 miles of it.
