On June 28, as the Toronto Pride Parade concluded the Pride Festival Weekend, YUFA reaffirms institutional commitment to 2SLGBTQIA+ equity and inclusion for all members. June honours both Pride Month and Indigenous peoples and their histories across Canada.
The Canadian Labour Congress articulated YUFA’s position clearly: “Workers have always understood that an attack on one of us is an attack on all of us. Canada’s unions are proud to be allied with the trans and gender diverse communities.” When unions show up, they affirm that 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are worker rights. Systemic barriers to safety, recognition, and workplace equity demand union power. YUFA members advance scholarship, teaching, and activism in marginalized communities, including 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
YUFA recognizes the importance of concrete action for members, including racialized queer members and trans faculty who face compounded barriers and institutional indifference. This is where commitment matters: in contract language, protected time, and resource allocation. Recognized Caucuses within YUFA (Article 4, Constitution; Bylaw 9) are intended to work with union leadership, propose contract language, and advance equity, including 2SLGBTQIA+ equity.
A visible contingent would strengthen YUFA’s presence within the broader labour movement that stands with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. If you want to help build that contingent, or push for concrete gains for 2SLGBTQIA+ members in bargaining, contact your Caucus representatives or reach out to the Stewards’ Council. Tell us what needs to change.
Further readings:
- Canadian Labour Congress. "Canada's Unions Stand in Support and Solidarity with Trans and Gender-Diverse People." March 31, 2026. https://canadianlabour.ca/canadas-unions-stand-in-support-and-solidarity-with-trans-and-gender-diverse-people/
- YUFA Caucuses
- YUFA Constitution
- YUFA Bylaws