It’s been a busy year for CUPE BC, marked by two high-profile strikes, increased community engagement, a historic organizing drive, a province-wide public childcare campaign, and ongoing government relations work. These and other achievements were presented Thursday morning in the Executive Board’s report to convention.
General Vice-Presidents Dal Benning, Sheryl Burns, Amber Leonard, and Tony Rebelo presented the report that highlighted CUPE BC’s work throughout the past year.
Through the Strong Communities Working Group (SCWG), CUPE BC supported locals in bargaining 94 collective agreements in the past year. This work included assisting locals with government relations at both local and provincial levels, as well as public outreach, community engagement, and member mobilization.
CUPE BC also supported striking transit members at CUPE 561 in the Fraser Valley and CUPE 4500 in Metro Vancouver. Members of both locals showed tremendous courage and resolve in taking a stand for fairness, and their victories set a strong precedent for future negotiations across the province.
CUPE BC engaged in ongoing political action work. With the next provincial election approaching in October, the union has been leading a member-focused strategy that will make it easier for locals and activists to connect with members on important issues.\
The union’s political advocacy also extended to anti-privatization work. This included the launch of a campaign for expanded public transportation, and the on-going childcare campaign.
CUPE BC continued to participate actively in government consultations, meeting with key decision-makers and making multiple submissions to provincial government. This advocacy included focus on housing, healthcare, safety, and affordability. Executive Board members also attended the 2023 Union of BC Municipalities convention, connecting local governments on the crucial work done by CUPE members.
CUPE BC supported allied organizations with resources to address key issues like poverty and inequality, and justice for women, migrants, Indigenous people, and racialized people. In total, 2023-24 saw more than $425,000 in funding distributed to over 45 projects and organizations to advance labour, social justice, environmental, international solidarity, and other progressive work.
Over the past year, CUPE BC’s support for numerous events and initiatives was aimed at engaging the public and enhancing solidarity included supporting fellow union picket lines, local and district council events, and pride events across the province. CUPE BC’s new Community Events Van also hit the road last year, and is open for booking in 2024 to locals across the province.
As CUPE BC concludes a dynamic year, it remains committed to championing the rights of public sector workers across B.C. Looking ahead to the provincial election and future challenges, CUPE BC is poised to do what is required to build on the year’s successes and committed to building a stronger B.C. for working people and their families.