CUPE Manitoba, the province’s largest union, is excited to announce the launch of a new educational initiative designed to help kids better understand the important roles public sector workers play in their communities: We Work for Manitoba: A Kids’ Activity Book on Public Workers.

The children’s book highlights the wide array of public services that sustain Manitobans and their communities, and the workers who provide them – from educational assistants and health care aides, to school bus drivers and parks workers.

“We wanted to create something that helps build a deeper appreciation for public services and the people who provide them across Manitoba,” said Gina McKay, president of CUPE Manitoba. “Children are often taught about some jobs and careers, but not others. They learn about teachers, doctors, and lawyers, but not health care aides or educational assistants, or ice makers at the community rink. Through puzzles, mazes, games and illustrations, this activity book showcases the sometimes-overlooked public sector workers that we all rely on each day.”

From the dietary aide in a hospital, to the parks worker who keeps the community’s green spaces growing and clean, the book showcases a wide variety of public sector roles. In doing so, it encourages kids and families to recognize the diverse range of workers we all rely on to keep Manitoba vibrant, growing, and safe.

The free activity book is a great educational tool for families, educators, and community groups, providing an opportunity for conversations about public service and community responsibility.

CUPE Manitoba has also released a short, animated video – watch here – that brings the book to life, narrated by CUPE Manitoba President, Gina McKay. 

The We Work for Manitoba activity book is now available for free to schools, clinics, and community organizations across the province. CUPE Manitoba is proud to share this free resource as part of its efforts to highlight the importance of public sector workers and public services.

For more information or to request copies of the activity book, visit https://cupe.mb.ca/activitybook/.