Women's Committee

AUPE’s Constitution sets out the duties of the Women’s Committee as follows:

The Women’s Committee shall:

1. educate and promote awareness to the members and the public on equality, discrimination, current and related issues especially as they relate to women;
2. encourage and support involvement of Women in Union activities, events and educational;
3. promote involvement and support by AUPE members-at-large and communities of women’s issues;
4. co-operate with, liaise with, and lobby other organizations and various levels of government addressing women’s issues;
5. prepare and present policies, briefs and information on issues of concern;
6. initiate action and participate in meetings, conferences, conventions and educational courses on issues of concern to women and co-ordinate these with other committees and organizations; and
7. establish a resource base on women’s issues including but not limited to, discrimination and equality.

Alberta is the only province in Canada that does not require employers to provide paid domestic violence leave to workers. Right now, a worker in Alberta is entitled to up to 10 unpaid days in a calendar year.

It’s not good enough and here’s why.

Domestic violence in a relationship can build over time, or it can happen in an instant. There are also many different types of domestic violence, including but not limited to physical, psychological and financial abuse.

Albertans deserve to get the help they need – when they need it. That’s why the AUPE Women’s Committee is taking a three-step approach to improve domestic violence leave in Alberta:

1. Education 
2. Legislation
3. Negotiation

Workers in Alberta deserve better than the bare minimum from the government and employers. AUPE has already made some progress at the negotiating table for Government of Alberta and Local 050 members. But we know there’s more work to do. 

AUPE is committed to strengthening awareness and advocating for more support for people dealing with domestic violence. We will also be working hard to ensure that your negotiating teams have the tools they need to get you the best support possible at the bargaining table.

Do you feel unsafe in your home? Support is free and available 24/7, just call 1-866-331-3933 to be connected to a shelter near you. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Paying for menstrual products can add up! 

In fact, one in three Canadians who need menstrual products struggle to afford them.

But the cost is even greater for people who menstruate when combined with systemic issues like low incomes, unaffordable housing, and economic instability.    

That’s why the AUPE Women’s Committee is fighting to End Period Poverty in Canada by:

• Collecting menstrual products at AUPE meetings & events to donate to organizations that support vulnerable Albertans.
• Lobbying AHS to make sure menstrual products are available at all AHS-funded health care facilities.
• Pushing for legislation that will make period products free for all Canadians who need them.