Dear Members, 

A message from your Communications Committee member Chris Amaddeo:

June is Pride Month, and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, it's a time that holds special significance for me. It's a chance to celebrate the vibrant spectrum of identities within our community, the incredible progress we've made, and the work that still lies ahead. 
 

Honouring History and Looking Forward 

This year's Pride Month marks the 55th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Those courageous uprisings in 1969 were a defining moment in our fight for equality, a powerful reminder that positive change can emerge from resistance.  

The legacy of Stonewall continues to inspire me, and it serves as a call to action for all of us. While we've made significant strides towards equality, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is far from over. These brave acts of resistance sparked a global movement for equality, and we continue to honour those who paved the way for progress. Discrimination and prejudice continue to exist in various forms. 

Here at CUPE 4070, we are dedicated to advocating for our members and all LGBTQ+ workers. We actively promote diversity and inclusion through our social media, shared educational resources and bargaining for strong anti-discrimination language in our contracts. We stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ workers in our fight for equality and justice. 
 

Celebrating Our Members 

We are fortunate to have a vibrant and diverse membership at CUPE 4070. We join the global celebration of Pride Month and stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ members! We encourage all members to attend pride events, festivities and parades to show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s a list of events happening around Canada: 

• Winnipeg – June 1-2, Parade: June 2 

• Kelowna – June 1-9, Parade June 8 

• Toronto – June 28-30, Parade: June 30 

• Halifax – July 18-21, Parade: July 20 

• Vancouver – July 26-August 4, Parade: August 4 

• Montreal – August 1-11, Parade: August 11 

• Edmonton – August 17-24, Parade: August 24 

• Calgary – August 31-September 1, Parade: September 1 

Additionally, the Company has shared a list of pride events you can take part in to walk with WestJet. You can find details on this through Westnet. 
 

Ways to Get Involved 

There are many ways to show your support for the LGBTQ+ community throughout the year: 

• Attend a Pride event: Visiting a pride event, whether as LGBTQ+ member or an ally, your presence shows your support for love, equality, and acceptance. 

• Educate yourself: Learn about LGBTQ+ history, terminology, and current issues. Many resources are available online or through local LGBTQ+ organizations. 

• Speak out against discrimination: Challenge prejudice whenever you see it, whether in the workplace or your personal life. 

• Support LGBTQ+ businesses: Seek out and support businesses owned by LGBTQ+ individuals. 

Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone. 
 

Be you, be loud, and happy pride!

Chris Amaddeo 
CUPE 4070 Communications Committee 
Communications@cupe4070.ca