- Conference
- 2017 National Women's Conference
- Date
- 10 October 2016
- Decision
- Carried
More than 70% of UNISON members are women and UNISON is committed to fair representation and proportionality (Rule D1.4). However, in the public sector where many of our members are Black women, we see very few Black women represented at branch, regional and national level; despite statistics telling us that Black people are amongst those most likely to join a union.
In furtherance of the Rule Book aims of self-organisation, (D 5.1.1, 5.1.2, 5.1.3, and 5.1.4) and in line with the union’s aims and objectives; we acknowledge that further specific work can assist and encourage the participation of members who may feel marginalised. A high percentage of Black women members are working in health, social care and local government; many are low paid members. At a time when UKIP is promoting division in our communities, it is crucial that UNISON continues to lead the way in its view that diversity in our society adds value to us all.
The Freedom of Information requests carried out regionally in Local Authorities revealed that Black women are more likely to be selected for redundancy than their white counterparts; even though they are poorly reflected in number within the workforce (5% rather than 12% statistical expectation).
Work done regionally and in branches to promote the active involvement of women, especially Black women needs to be encouraged at a national level.
We therefore call upon the National Women’s Committee to work with National Black Members’ Committee to:
1) work with the regions to encourage branches to do what they can to empower all Women (Black, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Disabled and young members) from all cultures and all religious backgrounds, to become activists and to become involved with their Self Organised Groups, to consider becoming stewards and increasing their participation in their Branch Committees and to become active in their regions and the wider union as a whole;
2) work with branches to actively encourage the inclusion of Black women (where appropriate) across the country and value their involvement and diversity.