In accepting the award, Ramsay told convention delegates that she is “humbled and honoured,” by the recognition. “But there are so many people who deserve a huge thanks for supporting my work advocating for disability rights in the workplace.” She included former CUPE National President Paul Moist, CUPE PEI President Lori McKay, her CUPE national representative, coworkers and “most of all, all of you, CUPE members, who in your own locals support the work of disability rights advocates.”
When the accident happened, Ramsay was an active and engaged member of CUPE 1770. Working with the union, coworkers and the employer, for Ann’s accommodation in the workplace meant retraining, changing jobs and joining a different CUPE level.
In 2010 Ramsay joined the CUPE National Persons With Disabilities Committee. She currently serves as committee co-chair. She is also member of CUPE P.E.I.’s Equality Committee and has presented on disability rights at the CUPE P.E.I. Convention, to the CUPE Division Executive. Ramsay is also the face for a powerful poster that was part of CUPE’s “Solidarity of Abilities” campaign. A strong advocate for Duty to Accommodate training, Ramsay has helped to organize workshops in her division on the topic.
Ramsay closed her remarks with a saying for gratitude. “A true friend knows your weakness…recognizes your disabilities but emphasizes your possibilities,” she said.