Union President Stands Up For LGBT Workers (And Union-Busting LGBT Paper)

[Omaha Steve]

Cross posted in GDP.

http://prideatwork.org/page.php?id=383

Union President Stands Up For LGBT Workers (And Union-Busting LGBT Paper)

In the summer of 2001, workers at Lavender Magazine, Minneapolis’ only queer publication, attempted to organize. The magazine’s owner engaged in a relentless union busting campaign, and the workers were treated to persistent attacks on their right to a voice at work. The battle ended without a contract, and many writers left the paper due to this blatantly anti-union and anti-worker campaign.

This week, Lavender sees its paper, and indeed its readers, supported by union leadership in a true testament to the power of the labor movement.



Despite the magazine’s hostile attitude toward unions, Michelle Sommers, President of the Amalgamated Transit Unit Local 1005 in Minneapolis, has courageously opposed the decision of Metro Transit to permit a city bus driver not to drive buses carrying Lavender advertisements. Michelle, a great straight supporter, publicly disagreed with the decision, saying that the bus system would be crippled if the bus drivers were able to decide which buses they drive due to advertising content.

Michelle has ensured that Amalgamated Transit Union is standing by its LGBT workers, and the LGBT community, even when our community turned its back on working people, when our brothers and sisters at Lavender attempted to organize a union.

FULL story at link above.

PLEASE NOTE: Action Alert: Because of her public stand, Michelle Sommers, President of ATU Local 1005 is getting slammed by anti-gay forces in Minneapolis and abroad. Please take a moment and tell our sister in Minneapolis that we appreciate her taking a stand against religious-based intolerance and bigotry. Let her and her union know that their voice of equality matters by emailing Michelle: [e-mail]

[nosmokes]

1. Right on michelle!

whenever a man or woman fights for equality or fairness, the banner and strength of organized labor should be right beside them.