Union Congress lays wreath at Iranian embassy

Unions mark International Day Against Homophobia

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Communication Workers Union (CWU) will mark International Day Against Homophobia today (Saturday) by laying a wreath outside the Iranian Embassy in London at 11am to commemorate the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people who have been killed by the Iranian regime.

There are 77 countries in the world today where it is a criminal offence to be gay. In seven countries – including Iran – women, men and children are punished for their sexuality with death sentences.

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said: “While unions have campaigned for equal rights for LGBT people with much success in the UK, around the world the situation is far worse. In many countries LGBT people face harassment, intimidation, violence, ostracism, hate crimes and even death, simply because of their sexuality."

“International Day Against Homophobia is an opportunity for unions to highlight the suffering of LGBT people all around the world, and demand that the way they are treated is improved – both in the workplace and in the wider community.”

The TUC is also organising leafleting in Soho, London, and in Birmingham city centre, where entertainment will also be provided. A meeting on LGBT rights in Europe will also be held by the University and College Union (UCU) in Manchester.