A motion proposed by the TUC LGBT+ Conference urged the TUC to support and campaign for the rights and freedoms of trans and non-binary individuals.
TUC LGBT+ Conference proposed Motion 40, Protect Trans and Non-binary Rights. It was highlighted that the UK government had used section 35 of the Scotland Act 1998 to prevent the Scottish Parliament’s Gender Recognition Reform Bill from receiving royal assent for the first time since devolution 25 years ago.
The progressive Bill, which would have abolished barriers to persons legally changing their gender by allowing for self-identification, had been overwhelmingly passed by the Scottish Parliament.
The motion also referred to the UK government’s remark that would limit trans and non-binary people’s ability to have their Gender Recognition Certificate recognised in the UK if it was given by a country that allows self-identification.
Congress agreed that people should be supported through transition and self-identification, that transphobia must be challenged, that the TUC has a responsibility to respond to attacks on trans and non-binary people’s rights, and that all LGBTQ+ people should have the right to live free from discrimination.
The motion asked the TUC to host an online event focusing on international progress towards trans and non-binary self-identity and inclusion, to assist unions in becoming more trans and non-binary inclusive, and to collaborate with LGBTQ+ organisations to support and protect the lives of Trans+ and non-binary people.
Changing the motion «Isn’t equality what we’re here for?» Julia Georgiou of the NHBCSA (National House Building Council Staff Association) said. «When our rights are challenged your rights are challenged or are next in line».
Dean Ismay of GMB spoke in support of the motion and said that «Trans and non-binary people currently face huge barriers as they try to live their lives freely and fully».
Speaking in support of the motion PCS, national president Fran Heathcote said: «Reform of gender recognition processes is essential to remove barriers to our trans and non-binary comrades. The current restrictions on acquiring legal recognition cause unnecessary harm and suffering to trans and non-binary people, emotionally, physically and financially, and removing these barriers must be a priority».
«The lengthy and invasive process of acquiring medical evidence to support a change in legal identity must be streamlined and simplified, and non-binary people must be given legal recognition».
«Women members of PCS are raising legitimate concerns over some issues. Others are raising concerns from an opposite, polarised position. The discussion of ideas, allowing people to explore their concerns and find ways of uniting, is a vital part of building wider support for trans rights I’m pleased to say this year that in PCS we are building that unity and discussion, making people feel safe to express themselves. The next stage in our work will be to discuss and consult on a civil service gender guidance».
The motion was carried.
