BPSU Endorses PSI Equality Declaration
The Bermuda Public Services Union [BPSU] announced its recent endorsement of the Public Services International [PSI] Declaration of Trade Union Organizations Free from Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.
A spokesperson said, “This milestone reaffirms the BPSU’s unwavering commitment to building inclusive workplaces and societies that uphold dignity, justice, and equality for all workers.
Back row: Assistant General Secretary Sis Lloyquita Symonds, 3rd VP Sis Sharon Symonds, Assistant Recording Secretary Sis Christine Bogle-Mienzer. Front row: Treasurer Sis Kim Richards, President Bro Armell Thomas & 1st VP Sis Nadine Henry
“The PSI Declaration recognizes that LGBTIQA+ people in the Inter-Americas region continue to face widespread violence, exclusion, and discrimination in both public spaces and the workplace.
“By endorsing this declaration, the BPSU joins with unions across the Caribbean and the Americas in committing to defend human rights, promote safe and discrimination-free workplaces, and reject all forms of harassment, stigmatization, and violence.
“This bold step is not new for the BPSU, but rather a continuation of its proud history of leadership. The BPSU was the first union in the Americas to establish a Diversity Committee, providing a dedicated platform to champion inclusivity within the labour movement. The Union has also been at the forefront of celebrating and recognizing the contributions of its LGBTIQA+ members, demonstrating in practice its philosophy of leaving no worker behind.”
“By signing this declaration, the BPSU is once again showing that Bermuda is willing to lead with courage and conviction,” said Sis. Linda Bogle-Mienzer, BPSU LGBTQI Representative for the Caribbean Subregion and member of PSI’s International LGBTIQA+ Committee. “This is a reaffirmation of our long-standing commitment to human rights and to ensuring that every member, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, is respected and protected in their workplace.”
The spokesperson said, “The PSI Declaration is grounded in globally recognized standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the ILO Convention 111 on Discrimination in Employment, and the ILO Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work. By aligning itself with these principles, the BPSU underscores its responsibility not only to its membership but also to the global struggle for equality and dignity at work.
“BPSU’s endorsement also reflects its role as a regional trailblazer. At the recent PSI Inter-Americas Strategy and Planning Meeting in Saint Lucia, the BPSU stood alongside sister unions from St. Lucia, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Curacao, and Belize, strengthening a collective front for inclusive trade unionism across the Caribbean.
“For decades, the BPSU has been recognized as a leader within Bermuda and internationally for its progressive stance on social justice issues. This endorsement builds on that legacy, reinforcing the message that equality is not negotiable – it is fundamental.
“The BPSU pledges to continue cultivating workplaces where diversity is valued as a strength. The Union will also advocate for robust mechanisms to prevent, address, and sanction discrimination and harassment, ensuring safe and decent work for all.
“The BPSU extends gratitude to its members for their continued support of this important work. Together, we will continue to raise the standard, demonstrating that trade unions are not only defenders of workers’ rights but also champions of inclusion, respect, and dignity.”
