Passion and enthusiasm at LGBT+ conference

By Katie Reynolds, NEU disabled LGBT+ educators’ network chair

THE TUC has launched a campaigning network focusing on the fight for trans rights in the workplace and wider society. It follows a motion supporting trans and non-binary rights brought by the NEU to the TUC LGBT+ conference last summer, which subsequently received overwhelming support at TUC congress in October.

Trans and non-binary individuals, particularly children, are increasingly targets of hostile media attacks and right-wing “culture wars” rhetoric. This is no accident: the Government is using the rights of an oppressed minority as a political football to distract from chronically underfunded education and healthcare systems, further cuts to public spending, and a national costof-living crisis.

The network launch in April was well attended by NEU members. LGBT+ executive member Kacey De Groot highlighted the impressive levels of engagement among NEU trans and non-binary members, explaining what we do and the positive impact a supportive network can have on someone experiencing often multiple levels of oppression.

We also heard from NEU member George White, who told us about some of his excellent work on LGBT+ inclusion in Catholic schools (transcatholicteacher.com).

Passion and enthusiasm ran high, and we left with a renewed drive for change. We know that we are stronger when we stand together against all forms of oppression. n Email LGBT@neu.org.uk to find out more.