Delegates to CUPE Manitoba’s convention passed a resolution against domestic violence Apr. 23, in memory of CUPE 500 activist Shannon Scromeda who was beaten to death by her partner Apr. 19.
Scromeda, 25, was a City of Winnipeg worker and Local 500 member. She was an activist in the union and mother of a four year old son.
Delegates are meeting in Brandon this week at the 45th Annual CUPE Manitoba Convention. They are addressing almost 50 resolutions dealing with a range of issues facing members in their workplaces and communities.
The delegates adopted an emergency resolution condemning domestic violence.
“CUPE Manitoba will denounce all forms of domestic violence and call on the justice system to take future steps to reduce violence.
“Because:
- In this province where many CUPE members live and work many women and children are murdered by their partners; and
- Sadly on Saturday April 19, 2008 in the City of Winnipeg Sister Shannon Scromeda, mother, friend to many, daughter, activist was murdered by her partner; and
- This was a senseless and violent action committed against Shannon; and
- CUPE Local 500 members are saddened by her having been taken from many people who she touched on a day to day basis.”
CUPE Manitoba President Kevin Rebeck said, “I knew Shannon, had met her through our union. She was a thoughtful, outgoing, enthusiastic young woman who talked proudly about her son. I’m still shocked at the news of her murder. I know our 24,000 members send her family the deepest condolences.”
A number of delegates at the convention spoke of the abuse they had experienced. Others who work in women’s shelters or counselling programs also spoke about the damage domestic violence inflicts on women, their children, the extended families and ultimately their communities.
Shannon’s mother is a CUPE member and her aunt has been a long time CUPE activist.