Lorinda Seward, Local 351, Editor inSolidarity
Thirty College of Applied Arts and Technology Full-time Support Staff (CAAT-S FT) activists from all seven OPSEU/SEFPO regions gathered at the union’s head office on March 15-16 for the Organizing to Win training. Based on Jane McAlevey’s Organizing for Power program, the training provided college organizers with the skills and tools needed to harness the membership in support of the Bargaining Team.
The Organizing to Win workshop explored principles, strategies, and techniques of internal organizing as a process for empowering workers, strengthening locals, and building a strong union movement. Led by the CAAT-S FT Bargaining Team, participants focused on developing organizing strategies, mapping networks, identifying organic leaders, and practicing effective organizing conversations. The goal was clear: build power within CAAT-S FT to create a movement that stands in solidarity with the bargaining team and ensures that members’ rights are respected at the table.
Building Power for Bargaining
With bargaining set to begin this summer, the timing of this training was crucial. Christine Kelsey, Chair of the CAAT-S FT Bargaining Team, emphasized the importance of organizing. “If we want to get the best deal for our members in bargaining, then we need to build power so that we’re taken seriously at the bargaining table, and this training is the best way to build that power,” Kelsey said.
The weekend also saw a visit from OPSEU/SEFPO President JP Hornick and First Vice-President/Treasurer Laurie Nancekivell, both of whom underscored the broader political context of the fight for education and workers’ rights.
Hornick addressed the urgency of the moment, stating, “We are unequivocally in a class war, heading towards fascism … and the first thing they usually attack is education.” They added, “We might not have won the election, but we will win the battle.”
Nancekivell reinforced the importance of protecting quality education in Ontario, remarking, “Education is the great equalizer, and Ontarians don’t want downgraded education.”
Strength in Solidarity
For participants, the weekend was not just about learning organizing tactics – it was about strengthening the collective resolve to win at the bargaining table. Ahmed Elbadri of Local 416 reflected on the impact of the training: “There was definitely a sense of camaraderie and the realization that there are so many people working together on this and that I’m not just on my own in my local. The exercises were a real help.”
Meet the Bargaining Team
The CAAT-S FT Bargaining Team leading negotiations this summer includes:
Christine Kelsey, Chair (Local 416)
Shelley Gartshore, Vice Chair (Local 124)
Bob Holder (Local 243)
Dana Leaman (Local 241)
Xiaoyan Wang (Local 561)
Veronica Attard (Local 416)
Dan Brisson (Local 672)
Bryan Stamm (Staff Negotiator)
As bargaining approaches, the lessons learned from this training will be instrumental in organizing members and ensuring that CAAT-S FT stands strong in the fight for a fair contract. The power of the union lies in the strength of its members – together, we win!