Federation took part in Newcastle’s first LGBTIQ Pride weekend as an opportunity to expand its actions outside greater Sydney.
Newcastle Pride is a new event that celebrates solidarity in gender and sexuality diversity, as well as embracing love and strength within and outside the LGBTIQ community.
Federation’s LGBTIQ Special Interest Group (SIG) decided the event would be an opportunity to expand its actions to areas outside of Sydney, with Federation hosting a stall at Fair Day.
It provided members the chance to show support for LGBTIQ communities and public education as well as promote campaigns relevant to all.
The event visibly demonstrated Federation’s commitment to creating safe, supportive and accepting schools for LGBTIQ students, families and workers. The union’s participation at Fair Day communicates to the LGBTIQ community that Federation is dedicated to the cause of equality for all.
Hundreds of people congregated in Foreshore Park in Newcastle to be for the event on 25 August, which included students, teachers, families and the general community.
Federation’s stall was well received and supported by those at Fair Day with many people registering their support of more funding for local public schools via the Fair Funding Now! and Stop TAFE Cuts campaigns.
Members interested in receiving updates about LGBTIQ issues and activities can sign up to the LGBTIQ Special Interest Group to receive updates and get involved in future activities.
Membership of this group is open to all members with an interest in LGBTIQ issues. To register your interest to be part of the SIG email [email protected].
Mel Smith is the officer attached to the LGBTIQ SIG and Restricted Committee