This is what democracy looks like

The summer months are here and its time to fire up the BBQ for a cookout or two. The summer months also means AUPE members deserve congratulations for another successful season of annual general meetings (AGMs). By the end of the AGM season, over 400 Locals, Chapters, and Area Councils will have elected their executive teams and convention delegates. 

All outgoing elected officers, who volunteered countless hours for our union, deserve congratulations as well. Newly elected members will continue to build on your success while developing their own unique strengths and solidarity. What an exciting time! 

“The energy in the room was empowering,” said AUPE President Guy Smith after attending a joint Chapter AGM in Peace River, Alberta. “Whenever there are new voices at the table, there are also new ideas and enthusiasm for the road ahead, which is ultimately good for AUPE’s long-term strength and sustainability.” 

Scenes like this played out across the province since January, with countless members attending AGMs and running in contested elections at every level of the union. This includes Local Chairs and Provincial Executive (PE) representatives, who are now comprised of almost 50% newly-elected or first-time officials. 

“Our union’s democracy is our union’s foundation,” says Smith. “We only get stronger when new, diverse, energetic voices get involved. These leaders and activists will be fully supported, including with resources and educational opportunities, to fulfill the commitment they have made to their fellow workers.” 

AUPE members have endured crushing challenges over the last several years, but that has not stopped us. We know the importance of union activism, of using our voices to make unique contributions as we prepare for massive rounds of negotiations in 2024. We know that it will take a united effort and commitment from all levels of AUPE leadership to ensure are ready to stand up for what they deserve in bargaining. 

Part of this preparation will include bargaining conferences, enhanced training for negotiating teams, and, of course, our annual convention. Delegates will each represent as many as 100 fellow members when they meet on the convention floor in October. Convention delegates participate on their coworkers’ behalf to set direction, make key decisions, and strengthen the solidarity of our union.  

Convention is still several months away. In the meantime, Smith encourages all elected officers and convention delegates to meet with their members and understand their concerns, their struggles, and their goals. 

“Please use every opportunity you can—at the worksite, at summer picnics and barbeques, at union meetings—to talk to each other and get to know each other,” he says. “Please reach out to other elected officers and staff if you need help or support. By being elected to any of the hundreds of positions in our union, you have shown your commitment to AUPE’s democracy." 

This is what democracy looks like!