TEU turns pink and rainbow to bring kindness into our workplaces.

By Bronwyn Larkins, Te Pou Whirinaki | National Women’s Officer

Last week, Te Hautū Kahurangi | Tertiary Education Union hosted a series of inspiring events to combat bullying, celebrate diversity, and promote kindness and inclusion in the workplace.

TEU networks and branches played key roles in planning and executing these events. Despite busy workloads, members proudly wore pink TEU t-shirts, donned Pay Shirt Day stickers, and spread kindness to demonstrate our united stance against homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia.

Every worker deserves a safe workplace free from bullying and harassment. Not only do you deserve it, the law requires it.

Our events were filled with vibrant activities and heartfelt moments.

In loving memory of our union’s much loved former vice president Cat Pausé, we launched Cat’s Cards of Kindness. These cards, embodying the kindness and compassion that Cat always championed, are now available and serve as a reminder of the positive impact small gestures can have on our lives.

TEU’s Rainbow advisory group, network and Rainbow branch delegates also highlighted International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia which fell on Pink Shirt Day this year. Rainbows and excitement were either added to other events or held as standalone ones. Some branches had their first ever Rainbow event to celebrate the diversity in their workplace. This united effort highlights our strong stance towards a better Aotearoa.