Many thanks to OMDC (Okanagan Mainline District Council) for sending me to Convention as a delegate, I had a fantastic experience that I am eternally grateful for! It was a jaw dropping experience to witness over 300 locals represented by locals and district councils. As one of 6 representing a district council I was truly honored to be present and able to vote on such important matters.
While I had the privilege of being sent by OMDC, I was also representing CUPE BC’s Young Worker’s Committee as the co-chair of the committee. Our committee hosted a Young Worker’s event during the conference specifically to engage young activists within CUPE and other unions as well. Our Boat cruise event was fully booked within the first day of Convention and we had a large wait list as well. We also chose to fund raise for Covenant house in Vancouver – a shelter providing support for 16-24 year olds who have fled physical, emotional and/or sexual abuse; those who have been forced from their homes and those who have aged our of foster care. We sold cookies by donation and raised just under $150.00 for Covenant house, and took donations of toiletries etc. as well.
Our local was very fortunate to have 4 members in attendance, 3 were able to vote on resolutions put forward on by various committees. Many resolutions were passed to lobby government for specifics such as proper funding for the k-12 education sector after the cuts made by the Liberals, a boycott of Nestle and it’s products, and support for Columbia against a corrupt government, just to name a few.
As a first timer to convention I was blown away by the solidarity and the level of engagement from other delegates. I hope to attend future Conventions as a representative of CUPE 1123 and all of the fantastic work we do as library workers!
Nicci Cabrejos
