SASKATOON — In a strong show of support, Saskatchewan Federation of Labour President Lori Johb declared the organization's unwavering commitment to equity and justice as they joined various groups and organizations commemorating Pride Month.
Johb, in a statement, expressed the collective determination to stand together and march in solidarity, advocating for the safety and inclusion of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Addressing the rising tide of transphobia and homophobia, she highlighted their prevalence in workplaces, online platforms, and society.
Johb also pointed out the distressing infiltration of these hateful ideologies into school boards, city councils, and political parties, emphasizing the need to counteract hate.
However, the provincial government's apparent lack of interest in curbing the harmful surge of transphobia and homophobia in Saskatchewan is cause for concern, she said. Of particular distress is the continued local funding allocated to private schools that promote anti-2SLGBTQIA+ sentiment, fostering an environment of hatred and violence.
Johb expressed pride in the presence of queer leadership within the federation's senior elected and staff positions. However, she acknowledged that there is still an inadequate representation of queer and trans individuals in leadership roles within the labour movement and communities. To address this, Johb pledged to continue creating safe and supportive spaces for all 2SLGBTQIA+ workers.
She firmly stated her refusal to passively witness the erosion of hard-fought progress made by queer and trans-Saskatchewanians at the hands of hate-filled extremists, emphasizing that action must be taken without delay.
As Pride Month unfolds, Johb's resolute words serve as a rallying cry for unity, underscoring the urgent need to combat hate and uphold the rights and dignity of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
