By Alexandrea Seggewiss, Local 715, inSolidarity Committee
You’ve been elected to attend Convention as a delegate, alternate or observer – now what?
On March 3, Dana Bruno, Region 7 Provincial Young Worker’s Committee representative, gave a thorough overview of what to expect via Zoom to members across the province.
Attending Convention for the first time can feel overwhelming, but don’t fret: Bruno shared various ways you can prepare:
Before Convention
Materials are typically made available two weeks prior to Convention, so take advantage of this time to review them, highlight any questions, and make note of any resolutions of interest.
It may also be a good idea to go over Robert’s Rules of Order, which is a set of parliamentary procedures that provide clear rules for how groups discuss motions, debate issues, and vote so meetings run fairly and efficiently. Check out Rules of debate – how to participate in OPSEU/SEFPO Conventions (and other meetings), and also Order, point of privilege, orders of the day, closure – the basics of Robert’s Rules by Wendy Lee for more information.
Whether you’re a delegate, alternate or observer, a confirmation email for hotels should soon hit your email inbox. This email will outline which hotel you’re staying at. If you’re not familiar with downtown Toronto, look up your hotel and familiarize yourself with how to get to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC).
April 8 – Arrival day, an important day for getting ready for Convention
Arrival day, otherwise known as travel day, is a great day to get acquainted with the Convention space. Registration opens at 1 pm and this is where you will check in, receive your credentials and swag bag. Walk down to the meeting area, find your region’s section and the nearest Pro/Con mics. This is also a fantastic opportunity to meet people from other locals. If time permits, check out some of the extra learning opportunities happening throughout the day, including:
Kairos Blanket Exercise at 11 am, “an experiential teaching tool that explores the historic and contemporary relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in the land we now know as Canada.” For more information, visit https://kairosblanketexercise.org/.
Smudging Ceremony at 5:30 pm, open to all members and sets the tone of respect for the entirety of Convention.
New Delegate Seminar at 7 pm Room 104 on Level 100, be introduced to chairs of Equity Committees and learn about Convention floor procedures.
Budget Q and A at 9 pm, Room 104, Level 100, ask questions and seek clarification before the debate on the Convention floor.
April 9 – Day 1, Opening and Election Q and A
Make sure to arrive early to secure your seats.
The day will begin with opening remarks and agenda proceedings and reports from the Executive Board and the Resolutions and Constitution Committees.
At noon, a random draw will determine which members’ questions will be answered during the 3 pm Q and A session for the President and First Vice-President/Treasurer candidates.
April 10 – Day 2, Election Day
Provincial Women’s Committee Breakfast and Bread & Roses Award at 7 am Level 100 across from Marketplace – nominations can be made by emailing your Region representative
Elections will be held for President and FirstVice President/Treasurer, as well as ranking of Vice Presidents.
Once elections are completed, begin reviewing and voting on resolutions and constitutional amendments. This is an essential part of Convention and determines how the union does its business. Resolutions and constitutional amendments directly impact how the union operates, supports its members and advances goals in the year ahead.
Awards Night at 7:30 pm John Bassett Theatre Level 100, inspiring reminder of our members unwavering dedication to labour movement
April 11 – Closing Day, continuation of reviewing resolutions and constitutional amendments
Indigenous Circle Sunrise Ceremony at 7 am in Simcoe Park (across from Convention Centre)
More than 2,000 OPSEU/SEFPO members will be gathering for Convention. These days are vital for union activism, networking and capacity building. It’s important to bring your best foot forward when you step onto the Convention floor; have your materials ready, take notes and be attentive.
Although these are days filled with business, there are plenty of moments for fun along the way. You can attend one of the optional extras, such as the Provincial Women’s Committee Breakfast and Bread and Roses Award, Awards Night or the Blue Jays baseball game.
And don’t forget to make a visit through the Convention Marketplace, where there’ll be a diverse range of vendors and partners offering valuable resources, services and information, including a silent auction to benefit the Live & Let Live Fund, pension and retirement organizations, as well as OPSEU/SEFPO Equity Committees.
Convention is more than just meetings and motions — it’s where members from across the province come together to shape the future of our union. Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning with experience, take full advantage of the opportunity to learn, connect and have your voice heard.
Ask questions, engage in discussions, and don’t be afraid to step up to the mic!
By the time Convention wraps up, you’ll leave not only with a deeper understanding of how OPSEU/SEFPO operates, but also with new connections, fresh perspectives and a renewed sense of solidarity.