Right to determine gender

Unite policy conference delegates agreed yesterday (July 4) that any worker has the right to determine their gender identity without unnecessary medicalisation and that they support a review of the process of applying for a gender recognition certificate.

Delegates voted in favour of an executive statement jointly written by Unite’s national women’s committee and national lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans committee and endorsed by the executive council.

The statement said, “Unite recognises that there are people who do not identify as either male or female whose identities are not widely recognised by society. Individuals with non-binary titles, pronouns and modes of dress as well the issues associated with being unable to express one’s gender identity within the workplace.

“Unite believes that any worker has the right to determine their gender identity without unnecessary medicalisation, and supports the review of the process of applying for gender recognition process/certificate.”

Leading a respectful debate, Unite executive council member Jenny Douglas (pictured) said, “We recognise there is a lot of work to be done across work places, government and in society to address the issues faced by gender variant, non-binary and transgender people.

“But we in the trade union movement aren’t afraid of hard work when it comes to improving society and the work environment for everyone.”

See the executive statement here