More LGBTQ+ Representation in Government

Pride at Work members belong to a variety of labor unions and organizations, each with different approaches to political action and endorsements. Nevertheless, we each know all too well the discrimination that LGBTQ+ individuals both in the workplace and in society as a whole.

We also understand that government can help to either perpetuate or stop discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized groups. For this reason, it’s important that every policy-making table include LGBTQ+ representation – including elected offices.

According to the LGBTQ Victory Fund, there are just over 1,000 out LGBTQ+ elected officials in the United States – a very small percentage of the over 500,000 elected officials currently serving at the local, state, and federal levels. By the LGBTQ Victory Fund’s estimate, the United States needs about 35,000 more LGBTQ+ elected officials in order for the proportion of LGBTQ+ elected officials to match the proportion of LGBTQ+ Americans overall.

With this in mind, Pride at Work calls on all labor unions, state federations, and labor councils which endorse candidates to consider the unique perspectives that LGBTQ+ individuals can bring to elected positions.

Furthermore, we call on all labor organizations to make protections for LGBTQ+ workers a priority with regard to screening candidates and other political and advocacy activities.

Submitted by Pride at Work Michigan