Here are some comments from PSAC members in BC who attended the 2007 Union School …
Members who took the Defending Our Communities – Resisting Globalization course identified the ways in which globalization impacts our lives and the lives of workers around the world and developed strategies to resist globalization and create a collective vision of social justice.
“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
“Those with admittedly little previous knowledge responded well to the course and weren’t overwhelmed.” Robert Strang, CEIU 20944, Vancouver
“I learnt about how globalization affects me personally and socially.” Bhupinder Sandu, UTE 20029, Abbotsford
At the Duty to Accommodate course, members looked at what the law says about the Duty to Accommodate in the workplace and developed skills in recognizing and identifying accommodation issues in the workplace, understanding needs to be met, and negotiating accommodations with the employer.
“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
“I was very happy in that I chose this course as it answered a lot of questions I had.” Edi Martin, USGE 20141, Abbottsford
“My expectations of the course were met. I now know the rights, roles and responsibilities of the employee, employer and the union.” Virgina Vaillancourt, UVAE 20030, Victoria
Health and Safety Level II course was designed to allow workplace Health and Safety committee members, worker representatives and activists to develop tools, resources and strategies to tackle more complex Health and Safety issues in their workplaces.
“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, DCL 20500, Victoria
“The scavenger hunt and inspection brought it all to life and were the best part.” Robert Mitchell, UTE 20028, Victoria
Click on the thumbnails for a larger photo … there are lots more in the PSAC BC Union School 2007 gallery.