Alberta Weeklong School 2023

Human Rights - An Introduction
May 1 (9:00am) - 4, 2023 (4:00pm)

This course provides leaders and activists with the opportunity to develop the skills and perspectives we need to build a stronger, more inclusive union. Employers use racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination against people with disabilities to divide us as workers. We’ll focus on the role the union can and does play in advancing equality and challenging employers. This course is not about the Human Rights Code

Anti-oppression/anti-racism
May 1 (10:30am) - 2, 2023 (12:00pm)

This workshop is for local union executives and regional committees that are willing to open their minds to hearing and learning about the history of colonialism that has affected marginalized groups such as Indigenous peoples, Black people and racialized people for decades. The purpose of this workshop is to be open and willing to create the change that is needed in our union and communities.

Safer spaces for Two-Spirit, trans, and non-binary workers
May 2, 2023 (1:00pm-4:30pm (Mountain))

This workshop explores how to create inclusive, safer workplaces for Two-Spirit, trans and non-binary staff. It will provide tools to better understand our Two-Spirit, trans and non-binary colleagues and fight transphobia. Participants will have the opportunity to assess their workplace and determine what steps they can take to build safer spaces. This workshop can have two audiences; a mixed audience of staff and management or an audience of only CUPE members.

Anti-Harassment and Bystander Training
May 3, 2023 (9:00am-12:00pm (Mountain))

When we are disrespected in our union, or when harm, harassment, and discrimination happen we are unsafe. We would not accept it from our supervisors and managers at work, and it is not ok in our union space. When we witness others being harmed, oppressed or injured, we can intervene in safe and effective ways before, during, or after a harassing or violent situation. In this 3-hour workshop, learn and practice how to intervene.

Global People Power: Building worker solidarity in a global economy
May 3, 2023 (1:00pm-4:30pm (Mountain))

This workshop explains the role that capitalism plays in workers’ lives, and examines the links between local and global issues. We will explore how building solidarity with workers in other countries makes the labour movement stronger in Canada and around the world.

LET - Essentials for Inclusive Unions
May 4, 2023 (9:00am-4:30pm (Mountain))

As activists in our unions, we often ask why members are not more involved. This workshop asks a different question: Who is involved and who isn't and what might be some reasons why? How might our unconscious biases contribute to this? How can we represent members in a way that invites those on the margins to get involved and to see the union as place where they want to make a difference?