## Union Members Demonstrate Support for LGBTQ+ Rights at Olympia Pride
Workers represented by IAM Local 695 (District 160) actively participated in this year’s Olympia Pride Parade, showcasing a powerful commitment to diversity, equality, and community solidarity.The display of support underscores a growing trend of labor unions championing LGBTQ+ rights as integral to workplace fairness and social justice.
Alongside InterCity Transit’s distinctive public transportation vehicles,union members visibly aligned themselves with the LGBTQ+ community,reaffirming their dedication to basic human rights. This participation isn’t merely symbolic; it represents a tangible expression of core union principles.
“Creating a secure and respectful environment is paramount for all workers, both within their professional lives and throughout their communities,” stated a union representative. “our involvement extends beyond a single event – it’s about consistently upholding values of justice, equity, and amplifying the voices of all individuals.”
The members of IAM Local 695, who are employed at InterCity Transit, expressed enthusiasm for an event that emphasizes the critical role of inclusion in both professional settings and broader society.Recent studies indicate that companies with inclusive policies report higher employee engagement and productivity.
A union leader emphasized the organization’s unwavering stance, stating, “We firmly beleive in equality, dignity, and inclusion for everyone. By actively participating in events like Pride, we send a clear message: every person deserves to be valued and respected, regardless of their identity or whom they love. This visibility is crucial for fostering understanding and acceptance.”
View a video recap of the event.