Over eighteen years ago, when I requested and was denied equitable workplace protections for LGBTQ workers, I was told, “We don’t have any gay union members.” That moment became a seminal reason why our chapter of Pride at Work formed — to bring visibility, voice, and inclusion to LGBTQ+ people in our workplaces and our unions. Together, with valued allies, we have accomplished exactly that.
The journey over the last 18 years has been extraordinary. With the support of labor, we stood on the right side of history to achieve marriage equality and get inclusive language in contracts. We’ve provided thousands of Pride and solidarity signs, walked countless picket lines — from the Mott’s strike to UAW and Verizon — and stood shoulder to shoulder with our union siblings in the fight for justice and fairness. We are deeply proud of the work we’ve done, including our monthly reports, both verbal and written, which will soon be preserved in the newly established Rochester Labor Library.
Today, the Rochester labor community has truly embraced the LGBTQ+ community, and because of that progress, our local chapter will confidently dissolve, effective January 1, 2026. I hope you will all continue to be members of Pride at Work nationally, as that work remains vital in these challenging times. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your unwavering support, solidarity, and friendship. Though our chapter’s work comes to a close, the relationships and values we’ve built together will continue to live on. Bess Watts, President Pride at Work AFL-CIO, Rochester Finger Lakes Chapter
