At its meeting in March, CUPE’s National Executive Board (NEB) discussed gender-based violence and other forms of harassment and discrimination occurring in our union. 

Despite the considerable measures and tools CUPE has put in place over the years, members continue to experience sexual and gender-based violence and other forms of harassment and discrimination in our union spaces. 

In response to these serious and ongoing concerns, the NEB passed a motion to create a National Safe Union Spaces Working Group, comprised of women members of the NEB. 

The working group began meeting last week. It will review existing tools and processes, identify gaps and make recommendations on changes and additional resources required to ensure safe union spaces for all members at all levels of the union.  

The group is committed to applying a diverse and intersectional lens to its work. They will be guided throughout by members’ input and the expertise of an external consultant. 

CUPE members know that violence, harassment, and discrimination seriously undermine union solidarity and do irreparable harm. Until all of us are safe, none of us are safe. 

Stay tuned for more details on the working group and how members can get involved.