Union General Secretary Stewart Little opened the conference, talking about the PSA CPSU NSW’s pioneering role in setting up a Pride Council.

The conference featured guest speaker Alex Greenwich, the independent MP for the state seat of Sydney.

Mr Greenwich talked about similarities between the union movement and campaigns for gay and trans rights.

“The two movements were not given the rights we have today,” he said. “We have had to fight for them, dragging governments kicking and screaming to deliver the rights we now enjoy.”

Mr Greenwich, one of the key leaders of the marriage equality campaign, praised the PSA CPSU NSW Pride Council as an organisation “on the frontline, driving change”.

The Parliamentarian praised the union for its role in helping him draft an equality bill that went through the NSW legislative chambers. However, he said “there is more work to do’, particularly in regards to rules allowing private schools to discriminate against gay and trans students and staff.

PSA CPSU NSW President Nicole Jess spoke to the conference.

“Pride, at its core, is about being true to oneself and embracing authenticity,” she said. “Our journey to equality is ongoing. Together we can create a place where we can not just survive, but thrive.”

Ms Jess talked about the “push back” the union received for campaigning for yes votes in the marriage-equality plebiscite and the Voice to Parliament referendum.

“We did not flinch,” she said, adding she took delight in the union’s pioneering role in setting up a Pride Conference.

Sam Rogers from health lobby group ACON (formerly the AIDS Council of NSW) talked about the services and programs available through his organisation.

He talked about what drives violence towards LGBTQI+ communities and the issues people face when seeking assistance.

The day also involved a number of forums and round tables discussing issues facing LGBTQI+ union members.

“I am happy to say the Pride Conference will be an important event on our union’s calendar for years to come,” said Ms Jess after the conference.