Public Service Alliance of Canada BC

71 members from across the BC Region – two thirds of whom were attending their first school - recently came together for the 2007 PSAC BC Union School in Burnaby from November 2nd-4th.

Over 3 days, participants were inspired by guest speakers such as National President John Gordon and CCPA BC Director Seth Klein who spoke on the school theme of “Public and Proud! Building Union Resistance to Privatization” and called upon those present to defend quality public services and ensure that people come before profits.

click on the thumbnails for a larger photo
there are lots more in the Union School 2007 photo gallery.

Keynote speaker Malalai Joya – Afghan Member of Parliament and women’s rights activist – shared her thoughts on the current situation in Afghanistan.

The school was opened and closed by Aboriginal Elder Phillipa Ryan and made history by providing the first course specifically for Aboriginal members in the region called “Our Community, Our Union, Our Rights.”

Defending Our Communities – Resisting Globalization, Duty to Accommodate and Health and Safety Level II were the other courses offered at the school. Participants on these courses developed a plan to resist globalization, started a network of union activists working on Duty to Accommodate issues and identified ways in which to move forward Health and Safety issues in the workplace.

Participants also shared their thoughts regarding the courses, below are some testimonials from them:

Defending Our Communities – Resisting Globalization:

“Participants felt that every union member should take this course.” Craig Ollenberger, Nat 20089, Vancouver

“The understanding that the union is about solidarity and the struggle of other places/countries was a huge eye-opener.” Maria Luiza Ramano, AGR 20027, Vernon

more testimonials

Duty to Accommodate

“The level of support I have received only makes me want to keep up the struggle/fight for other brothers and sisters.” Cindy Toovey, CEIU 20912, Courtenay

“This course really gave a better understanding and growth of knowledge in members’ rights to me.” Christine Leigh, UPCE 20095, Richmond

more testimonials

Health and Safety Level II:

“Very informative, good group work projects, interaction and good hands on exercises! Very enjoyable!” Jackie Robertson, UTE 20028, Victoria

“The course material covered was excellent.” James (Jim) Sidel, Directly Charted Local 20500, Victoria

more testimonials