CUPE has a long and proud tradition of fighting for equality for all our members.
We’ve taken on the struggles faced by women, members of colour, Aboriginal members, members with disabilities, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and transsexual members. Over the years, we’ve used many different strategies, including lobbying, campaigns, and bargaining to achieve our goals.
CUPE is obligated to represent the best interests of all members. Equality issues ARE union issues. That is why CUPE has been at the forefront, pushing employers and governments to recognize equality rights.
Bargaining equality rights allows CUPE members access to grievance and arbitration procedures. These are important because they provide a method of settling disputes that is quicker than the process offered by Human Rights Commissions.
Bargaining equality is about making our workplaces more inclusive and reflective of the communities in which we live. This Bargaining Equality binder aims to do just that. It’s a practical tool that members and staff can use to continue to make equality gains.