The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: 
Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Through case studies and facilitated discussions, participants identified the crucial role that equity groups play in resisting attacks on jobs and public services.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/equity-conference-tackles-precarious-work
Indigenous Conference
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Through case studies and facilitated discussions, participants identified the crucial role that equity groups play in resisting attacks on jobs and public services.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/equity-conference-tackles-precarious-work
Indigenous Conference
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
OPSEU’s 15th annual Joint Leadership was held on Tuesday, September 20 in Mississauga. This year’s theme was “equity in a precarious world” and participants examined the crucial role of equity groups in successful union campaigns, organizing and bargaining. The event was facilitated by Karl Flecker, former National Director of the CLC Anti-Racism and Human Rights Department. It also included an inspiring performance by Mohammad Ali, socialist hip hop artist and former Director of Education and Equity at the George Brown College Student Association.
Through case studies and facilitated discussions, participants identified the crucial role that equity groups play in resisting attacks on jobs and public services.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/equity-conference-tackles-precarious-work
Indigenous Conference
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
OPSEU’s 15th annual Joint Leadership was held on Tuesday, September 20 in Mississauga. This year’s theme was “equity in a precarious world” and participants examined the crucial role of equity groups in successful union campaigns, organizing and bargaining. The event was facilitated by Karl Flecker, former National Director of the CLC Anti-Racism and Human Rights Department. It also included an inspiring performance by Mohammad Ali, socialist hip hop artist and former Director of Education and Equity at the George Brown College Student Association.
Through case studies and facilitated discussions, participants identified the crucial role that equity groups play in resisting attacks on jobs and public services.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/equity-conference-tackles-precarious-work
Indigenous Conference
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Invited guest speakers provided a firsthand and familiar account of the reality young workers face as they enter the labour market: paying off large student debts because of unaffordable education; the need to work multiple jobs in order to live above the poverty line; newly created jobs in Canada are part-time, insecure, contract, casual and non-standard; and underemployment – skilled and educated individuals fortunate to find jobs in their chosen field but required to accept part-time, temporary work without benefits or a pension plan, little job security and unstable hours of work.
The Saturday evening program invited conference participants to take part in a Labour History Walk of Toronto. Organized by members of the Provincial Young Workers Committee, the tour looked at the struggles, gains and losses of working Torontonians who sought for fair and equitable working conditions. It also looked at connections between activism and employment legislation that workers want and need in Ontario.
A majority of the participants were new union activists and/or attending this conference as their first OPSEU function. They came to understand the importance of union struggles and why they remain relevant today.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/young-workers-conference-highlights-struggles-precarious-generation
Joint Leadership Day
OPSEU’s 15th annual Joint Leadership was held on Tuesday, September 20 in Mississauga. This year’s theme was “equity in a precarious world” and participants examined the crucial role of equity groups in successful union campaigns, organizing and bargaining. The event was facilitated by Karl Flecker, former National Director of the CLC Anti-Racism and Human Rights Department. It also included an inspiring performance by Mohammad Ali, socialist hip hop artist and former Director of Education and Equity at the George Brown College Student Association.
Through case studies and facilitated discussions, participants identified the crucial role that equity groups play in resisting attacks on jobs and public services.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/equity-conference-tackles-precarious-work
Indigenous Conference
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Invited guest speakers provided a firsthand and familiar account of the reality young workers face as they enter the labour market: paying off large student debts because of unaffordable education; the need to work multiple jobs in order to live above the poverty line; newly created jobs in Canada are part-time, insecure, contract, casual and non-standard; and underemployment – skilled and educated individuals fortunate to find jobs in their chosen field but required to accept part-time, temporary work without benefits or a pension plan, little job security and unstable hours of work.
The Saturday evening program invited conference participants to take part in a Labour History Walk of Toronto. Organized by members of the Provincial Young Workers Committee, the tour looked at the struggles, gains and losses of working Torontonians who sought for fair and equitable working conditions. It also looked at connections between activism and employment legislation that workers want and need in Ontario.
A majority of the participants were new union activists and/or attending this conference as their first OPSEU function. They came to understand the importance of union struggles and why they remain relevant today.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/young-workers-conference-highlights-struggles-precarious-generation
Joint Leadership Day
OPSEU’s 15th annual Joint Leadership was held on Tuesday, September 20 in Mississauga. This year’s theme was “equity in a precarious world” and participants examined the crucial role of equity groups in successful union campaigns, organizing and bargaining. The event was facilitated by Karl Flecker, former National Director of the CLC Anti-Racism and Human Rights Department. It also included an inspiring performance by Mohammad Ali, socialist hip hop artist and former Director of Education and Equity at the George Brown College Student Association.
Through case studies and facilitated discussions, participants identified the crucial role that equity groups play in resisting attacks on jobs and public services.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/equity-conference-tackles-precarious-work
Indigenous Conference
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf
Equity Conferences
Young Workers Conference
The Precarious Generation, OPSEU’s 9th annual Young Workers Conference was held from August 5-7th in Toronto. The event focused on the troubling reality today’s millennials are faced with – precarious work and underemployment. Conference participants were equipped with tools to empower and engage them to take active roles in creating change in their locals, workplaces and communities.
Invited guest speakers provided a firsthand and familiar account of the reality young workers face as they enter the labour market: paying off large student debts because of unaffordable education; the need to work multiple jobs in order to live above the poverty line; newly created jobs in Canada are part-time, insecure, contract, casual and non-standard; and underemployment – skilled and educated individuals fortunate to find jobs in their chosen field but required to accept part-time, temporary work without benefits or a pension plan, little job security and unstable hours of work.
The Saturday evening program invited conference participants to take part in a Labour History Walk of Toronto. Organized by members of the Provincial Young Workers Committee, the tour looked at the struggles, gains and losses of working Torontonians who sought for fair and equitable working conditions. It also looked at connections between activism and employment legislation that workers want and need in Ontario.
A majority of the participants were new union activists and/or attending this conference as their first OPSEU function. They came to understand the importance of union struggles and why they remain relevant today.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/young-workers-conference-highlights-struggles-precarious-generation
Joint Leadership Day
OPSEU’s 15th annual Joint Leadership was held on Tuesday, September 20 in Mississauga. This year’s theme was “equity in a precarious world” and participants examined the crucial role of equity groups in successful union campaigns, organizing and bargaining. The event was facilitated by Karl Flecker, former National Director of the CLC Anti-Racism and Human Rights Department. It also included an inspiring performance by Mohammad Ali, socialist hip hop artist and former Director of Education and Equity at the George Brown College Student Association.
Through case studies and facilitated discussions, participants identified the crucial role that equity groups play in resisting attacks on jobs and public services.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/equity-conference-tackles-precarious-work
Indigenous Conference
OPSEU’s first biennial Indigenous Conference was by all accounts a huge success! The theme was “Reconciling with Indigenous Communities: OPSEU’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Report.” This event, which took place from September 30 – October 2 in Cornwall, was OPSEU’s promise as a labour union to make this a reality.
From the beginning, the goal was to ensure that the conference was rooted in traditional ceremonies and teachings. It was organized by Indigenous members in conjunction with youth and elders of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. Together, throughout the weekend, elders, organizers, speakers, workshop facilitators, and performers invited Indigenous people and settlers to come together to engage in a process of education, healing and reconciliation. Conference participants accepted this invitation.
Senator Murray Sinclair provided the event’s keynote address. It brought tears as he painted a portrait of the impact of residential schools and colonialism on Indigenous communities. His presentation was followed by a rousing call to action by Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, the first Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University. Participants reviewed many of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and were informed of ways OPSEU members can implement them both at work and in their union.
As with any conference, its real success will be determined by the changes and new energy it brings to the Union. OPSEU members have already been challenged by President Warren (Smokey) Thomas to “play its part in the truth and reconciliation process by adopting these recommendations within our collective agreements.”
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/akwesasne-community-partners-opseu-successful-indigenous-conference
Human Rights Conference
“New Realities, Different Directions” was the title for OPSEU’s most recent Human Rights Conference. From November 18-20, OPSEU members from across the province took part in discussions and workshops that addressed key and relevant human rights issues such as islamophobia, the plight of refugees and migrant workers, and the struggles of racialized communities in Canada today. The event was a timely response to recent world events such as the election of President Donald Trump in the US, the Brexit vote in the UK, and the ongoing refugee crisis in Syria. These events were either motivated by, or sparked strong anti-immigrant sentiments.
Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commissioner, was welcomed as the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke of the work that everyone can do, and must do, to promote an equal society – “where everyone’s human rights are a lived reality.” Following her presentation, migrant workers’ rights activist Syed Hussan gave an empowering talk on the intersections between workers’ and migrants’ rights. A large number of migrant workers are exempt from basic labour protections under the Employment Standards Act, and a large number of these workers are low-wage, racialized immigrant workers.
The weekend also featured workshops on human rights and labour activism. Participants expanded their knowledge of human rights, labour rights, and global solidarity. Discussions exposed stereotypes, biases, and systemic issues while providing tools for responding in the community, workplace and in the union.
November 20 also marked the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day memorializes transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of transphobia. Morgen Veres, Region 4 representative on the PHRC and Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel, spoke of her own journey. She talked of the myriad of barriers transgender people in Canada and around the world are consistently faced with.
For more info: https://opseu.org/news/rights-activism-more-important-ever-conference-hears
We Own It Campaign
The Equity Unit has partnered with OPSEU’s We Own It, the biggest single-issue campaign in the organization’s history. “We own it!” is an anti-privatization campaign designed to keep public services where they belong – in public hands.
The Indigenous Mobilization Team (IMT) is in place to engage with Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and Bands, agencies, governing bodies, as well as Labour through the various union Indigenous Circles/Councils, federations of labour and the Canadian Labour Congress.
The IMT consists of three (3) Indigenous OPSEU members who will enable Indigenous communities to speak with their own voice, within and outside of OPSEU.
This project is a result of consultation with Indigenous members with strong connections with their communities and elders who represent those communities in partnership with The Chiefs of Ontario.
In addition, the Equity Mobilization Team (EMT) has been formed. This team of three OPSEU members is working to engage in labour-community organizing and build partnerships with immigrant and racialized communities. They will work to find common ground within these communities, in order to strengthen public services and protect them from privatization.
The EMT will engage racialized community members, community leaders, workers, young workers, precarious workers, social service leaders and providers, and not-for-profit organizations that provide services to immigrants, refugees and other vulnerable community groups. The EMT will establish partnerships with these community groups to address problems plaguing their communities and the services they need or have been receiving.
OPSEU has already partnered with the Workers Action Centre (WAC), a worker-based organization that plays a lead role in the Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign. It has provided training for the EMT organizers, one that has focused on strategic engagement with racialized and immigrant communities.
Harassment and Discrimination
Changes to OPSEU’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) and Procedures Manual now incorporate personal harassment that is unrelated to a prohibited ground identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably be known to be unwelcome. It includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Some examples covered under the Policy may include, but are not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of slurs, insults, name-calling, public humiliation, and exclusion from union activities or functions.
In addition to incidents of personal harassment, the HDPP provides for protection against discrimination consistent with the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of seventeen (17) identified prohibited grounds such as race, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status and family status. Members are also protected from policy violations such as reprisal or threats of reprisal.
Members who have a question about harassment and discrimination, who wish to file a complaint or submit a response are encouraged to contact an Advisor.
For more information: https://opseu.org/information/equity-policies
2017 Dates worth Noting
February – Black History Month
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 20 – Journée internationale de la francophonie
March 21 – International for the Elimination of Discrimination
April 6-8 – Annual OPSEU Convention
April 11 – Equal Pay Day
April 12 – International Day of Pink
April 28 – National Day of Mourning
May – Asian Heritage Month
June – Pride Month
June 21 – National Aboriginal Day
July/August – Caribana and Caribbean Festivals across Ontario
August 12 – International Youth Day
November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (usually one week of action leading to December 6)
December 1 – World AIDS Day
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 – Human Rights Day
Equity Unit 2017 Events at a Glance
January 19 – The Gathering (Toronto)
June 9-11 – Francophone Conference (Ottawa)
August 11-13 – Young Workers Conference (Toronto)
November 3-5 – Women’s Conference (Toronto)
TBD – Workers of Colour Conference
Equity Unit News
The Equity Unit is pleased to welcome three new members to the team!
MaryLynn Baran joined us in February 2017 as the unit’s Secretary. MaryLynn is currently replacing Jayme Giles who is on maternity leave until 2018. Prior to joining the Equity Unit, MaryLynn worked as a clerk in OPSEU’s Contract Enforcement Unit.
Hilda Namu also joined us in early 2017 to backfill for Tim Vining who is on assignment with the We Own It campaign. Hilda started her career with OPSEU in the Equity Unit when she first joined us back in 2014.
Gord Longhi joined us in 2017 as Supervisor of the Equity Unit. This is in addition to his current role as Supervisor of OPSEU’s Pension and Benefits Unit.
We would also like to thank Twila Marston for her leadership, guidance and dedication during her time as Acting Supervisor in 2016. She continues to contribute immensely to the work of OPSEU as the Supervisor of OPS Negotiations.
Last but certainly not least, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Kenzie Shae Giles, born on February 9, 2017 to proud parents Jayme and Stephen Giles. She joins big brother Jonah as an honorary member of the Equity Unit.
Equity Unit Staff
Secretary – MaryLynn Baran (backfilling for Jayme Giles)
Officers – Fridmar Facunda (Bilingual), Hilda Namu (Acting), Margaret Smoke (Corrections), Tim Vining, Libby Zeleke
Supervisor – Gord Longhi (Acting)
Contact the Equity Unit
The Equity Unit can be contacted in confidence by phone at 416-443-8888 or 1-800-268-7376 ext. 7404 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Visit us on the web at: https://opseu.org/equity-unit
Download a copy of the newsletter: Equitably Speaking Spring 2017.pdf