At the CUPE post-secondary sector council meeting delegates heard from CUPE locals 1870, 2500, 1334 and 1975 about how solidarity and member engagement lead to gains for members. Strategies to fight off pension plan changes included building solidarity with all campus locals; bringing younger members on board by using their contract to talk about trust; and engaging members with a “you talk, we listen” campaign. Choosing a strategic bargaining end date two years in advance helped custodians stave off attempts to contract out their work.
Delegates also heard from Cuban guest Avigail Pérez Llanes, Secretary General SNTAP, a national public workers union. Pérez thanked CUPE for our support and solidarity in helping Cubans fight against poverty and exploitation.