Tributes to Peter Purton
“
Having worked with Peter at the TUC and then as an affiliate at ATL, I have
always valued his drive, immense knowledge and commitment on LGBT
issues. We all wish him a happy retirement.”
Wanda Wyporska, Lead
Equalities Officer, Association of Teachers and Lecturers
“A huge loss to the movement without a doubt. Peter
championed LGBT and Disability rights in a way that made sure
Unions got behind the important campaigns that he has been
at the forefront of organising. His legacy will live on and the
bar has been set for whoever is fortunate enough to occupy this
very important role. Good luck and thank you from everyone at
the CWU.”
Linda Roy, National Equality Officer, CWU
“Peter has been at the heart of the LGBT equality, Labour and
trade union movement during decades that have seen the most
remarkable changes for the better. He would be the first to point
to what still needs doing. But he should be very proud of his part in
that change – we are certainly proud of him! We wish him the very best for a
wonderful retirement.”
Carola Towle, National officer, LGBT equality
“Huge thanks to Peter Purton for his many years of wonderful work for LGBT rights at the TUC. He
forged strong links between the LGBT and Labour movements; building solidarity on issues of human
rights and social justice. His contribution made a big difference and is much appreciated. I wish him a
well deserved long and happy retirement.”
Peter Tatchell
“There have been many changes to improve the lives of LGBT people during the time that Peter has
been at the TUC, many of which have been led by the trade union movement and of course Peter’s
influence and participation has been invaluable. He has also provided crucial advice and guidance to
trade unions in interpreting sometimes very complex legislation to further LGBT peoples’ rights. We
wish him all the very best for the future and a long and happy retirement.”
Sandie Maile, Equality and
Research Officer, Prospect
“LGBT issues are a matter of basic civil and human rights. Peter knew that long before many others
recognised it and his work has helped hugely in making the knowledge almost conventional. That’s a
triumph for liberty,even though there’s more to do. Well done Peter – and thanks”.
Lord Neil Kinnock
“We are grateful to Peter who has ensured that both LGBT and Disability issues are kept n the forefront
of the unions focus. It was not always thus and it would be foolish to assume to always will be. We wish
Peter a splendid retirement, secure in the knowledge he will continue to make a positive difference
and trust that he has secured the TUC attention sufficiently that they continue the good work he has
done.”
Sue Sanders, Professor Emeritus, Harvey Milk Institute, Chair Schools OUT
“Peter has been a champion for the rights of LGBT and disabled people for many years. I have had the
privilege of working with him for much of this time. Peter’s commitment to securing workers’ rights
within the trade union movement has laid solid foundations on which we can build as the struggle for
LGBT equality and disability rights continues. We wish Peter a happy and long retirement.”
Jennifer
Moses, NASUWT National Official, Equality and Training
spring 2015
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