Each year International Youth Day is recognized August 12 and SEIU-West is proud to share that we stand with young workers in our union and communities. We know they are experiencing soaring rent, tuition, inequality, and the growth of precarious work among many other struggles. Our Young Workers Committee is very active in raising awareness and taking action on these issues -  we're proud of the work they do and are excited for their future efforts! Check out the Young Workers Committee page to read their latest 'Shining A Light On' articles which focus on issues like mental health: https://www.seiuwest.ca/young_workers

In recognition of World Environment Day on June 5, your SEIU-West Young Workers Committee (YWC) encourages you to get involved in the daily efforts that are calling for a sustainable planet for current and future generations.

Every week, young people from around the world have been taking a lead in climate change awareness by striking against climate inaction, a tactic those in the labour movement are very familiar with. These strikes are a part of a larger movement that began in 2018 when Greta Thunberg, a teenager from Sweden, led the first student’s climate strike. Over time, her actions gained more attention and now, we’re seeing kids walk out of school on Fridays for the aptly named, Fridays for Future, in the hopes that our governments around the world will listen.  In countless reports, kids are telling us they’re fighting for their lives as they take to the streets to demand action on climate change. They are aware that they will bear the brunt of climate change impacts, and they want to see immediate action by decision makers.

In late 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued a report that warned that without serious, coordinated international cooperation and action to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, it is almost certain our planet would warm by over 1.5 degrees Celsius – the impacts of this warming would be catastrophic. In order to prevent the coinciding drought, floods, extreme heat and ill-health that would come with going beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius, we need to take big steps to reduce our emissions by 2030 – just 11 years from now.  

People around the world are listening to these kids and developing plans like the Green New Deal, “a bold and far reaching plan to cut emissions in half in 11 years in line with Indigenous knowledge and climate science, create more than a million good jobs you can support a family with, and build inclusive communities in the process.” Recently, hundreds of communities across Canada held Green New Deal Town Halls, and the people are developing the Deal to improve our future. 

These Town Halls contained brainstorming for both blue line ideas and green line ideas – the blue line ideas represent individual actions we can take, like talking to our neighbours about the impacts of climate change, reducing/eliminating the use of plastic, or composting. The blue line ideas are big picture/policy ideas and the results from this line are the ones that can make the big difference – fair taxation to fund a transition to renewable energy, creating nationalized public transit, re-training for affected fossil fuel workers, ending fossil fuel subsidies, or getting involved in CUPW’s Delivering Community Power initiative.

The SEIU-West YWC knows you need to take both individual and systemic action to address our climate crisis, so in recognition of World Environment Day, the SEIU-West is hosting a challenge and by entering, you’ll be entered to win some awesome prizes!

Tell us: what ideas do you have to create the big change we need to address climate change (green line)? And what steps have you made or are currently making at home or at work that will help to improve our planet (blue line)?

Send [email protected] your green blue/green ideas for your chance to win:

• Frontier Days Swift Current:
  • 4 June 26th Passes: (Includes general admission, Fresh Air Cinema Dumbo Movie in the Grandstand)
  • 2 June 28th Passes:  (Includes general admission, Rodeo, Colter Wall & Nitty Gritty Dirt Band)
  • 2 June 29th Passes:  (Includes general admission, Mini Chuckwagon & Heavy Horse Pulls)
  • 2 rodeo Passes
• A large gift basket (pictured here)
• One of two $50 giftcards to Rock Creek Tap and Grill 

Deadline to enter: June 16, 2019

And please visit the Saskatchewan Environmental Society and/or Climate Justice Saskatoon for more information – these organizations are always looking to grow! It is also important that you support workers affected by climate action. Please visit Iron and Earth, an organization of oil sands workers who want to transition into renewable energy development. If you know someone who works in the oil sands, please share this initiative with them in the hopes we can have a similar organization in Saskatchewan!

Each June, SEIU-West celebrates Pride Month to support all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two spirit, questioning and queer people in Saskatchewan and around the world! As a union that strives to achieve a more just society for all, we ask that you join us in celebrating the contributions to social justice the LGBT2Q+ movement has achieved.

This year is a particularly momentous Pride Month as 2019 commemorates the 50^th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, a historic uprising that is widely considered to be a vital event leading to the gay liberation movement and the modern struggle for LGBT2Q+ rights in North America. Within two years of the Stonewall uprising, LGBT2Q+ rights groups were formed all over America, Canada, Australia and Western Europe. Today, the legacy of the Stonewall Riots lives on around the world in every pride march, celebration, and struggle to achieve LGBT2Q+ equality and justice. 

In recognition of Pride Month, we encourage you to join Pride Month activists around the province - check out Saskatoon Pride, Queen City Pride and in rural communities, check out Saskatchewan Pride Network’s events for more information on what’s happening around Saskatchewan.

And if you’re interested in marching in the Saskatoon Pride Parade, let us know by emailing [email protected]! SEIU-West will have a group of purple to show our pride at this event on June 22. 

In recognition of Pride Month, we are also holding a SEIU-West Pride Contest! In order to be entered to win, here’s what you have to do:

1. Send a selfie of you at a local Pride event to [email protected] OR
2. Write a few sentences why or/and how you celebrate Pride Month
3. BONUS: do both 1 and 2 to get two entries into the draw!

Those who participate will be entered to win one of the following:

• Frontier Days: Swift Current (sponsored by the SEIU-West Young Workers Committee!)
  • 4 June 26th Passes: (Includes general admission, Fresh Air Cinema Dumbo Movie in the Grandstand)
  • 2 June 28th Passes:  (Includes general admission, Rodeo, Colter Wall & Nitty Gritty Dirt Band)
  • 2 June 29th Passes:  (Includes general admission, Mini Chuckwagon & Heavy Horse Pulls)
  • 2 rodeo Passes
• A large gift basket (pictured here)
• One of two $50 giftcards to Rock Creek Tap and Grill 

Deadline to enter: July 14, 2019

Good Luck!

By Cassidy Stynsky, Young Worker Committee Member

The SEIU-West Young Workers Committee (YWC) is shining a light on issues that often get pushed into the shadows and aims to break down stigma associated with important issues in our communities. In the last installment, the YWC shone a light on domestic violence.

Not only is the YWC shining the light on the campaign Man Up, we are hoping members of SEIU-West will join us in our mission to help redefine what it means to Man Up.

If you don’t know, Man Up is a global challenge and movement that is trying to redefine, reconstruct, and educate society on all types of violence.

With this movement, organizers are educating and working with youth on how to stop gender-based violence, while also promoting gender equality.

The initiative of Man Up is to challenge the stigma, educate, and confront the effects of hyper-masculinity in society.

The YWC has chosen this campaign due to our belief that enforced gender roles should be challenged – it’s okay to be who you are without societal pressures dictating how you should behave.

Man Up hosts and connects with many organizations to provide a voice and education on how to reduce and stop violence – whether it be in the workplace or elsewhere.

This movement is important for all SEIU-West workplaces whether you’re male, female or however you identify; we should be respectful and eliminate violence.

Educating each other on how to redefine what it means to Man Up will improve – if not challenge – those who have experienced violence to use their voice and advocate for those who may feel trapped.

For more information, visit https://www.manupcampaign.org/

Pending funding approval from the Human Resources and Development Canada, the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour anticipates a temporary opening for a Special Project Coordinator to be filled early May by a young worker aged 30 and under or a post-secondary or community college student aged 30 years and under. This position will be for a period of three to four months.

Responsibilities include:

• Organization and coordination of the SFL Summer Camp for young people age 13–16, August 10-16, 2019
• Research and policy development pertaining to camp and young workers.
• Production and distribution of printed materials
• Data entry and organization of information
• Additional office duties and assignments as required
Qualifications will include:
• Applicants must be between 15-30 years old to qualify for this position.
• Knowledge of the structures and policies of the labour movement and the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour.
• Sound knowledge and understanding of the SFL Summer camp.
• Ability to take initiative and implement activities and projects from start to finish.
• Good communication, writing and organizational skills.

The Saskatchewan Federation of Labour is an equal opportunity employer. Indigenous workers, women, workers of colour, workers with disabilities, and gay, lesbian, transgendered, bisexual workers are encouraged to apply for this position.

The position will pay above average wages for 30 hours a week.

Resumes for this position will be accepted until noon April 15, 2019 and should be addressed to Debbie Lussier, Administrative Coordinator or emailed to [email protected]. Please provide references.

Mail to: Saskatchewan Federation of Labour
220 – 2445 13th Avenue
Regina, Sask. S4P 0W1
Phone: 306-525-0197

The SEIU-West Young Workers Committee (YWC) understands that everyone knows someone who lives with or is affected by mental illness. The YWC also recognizes it is important to talk about mental health in order to break down the stigma around mental illness. That’s why they’re supporting the Bell Let’s Talk Day on January 30. This initiative is meant to spark a public conversation about mental illness, and encourage funding for mental health services.

In recognition of Bell Let’s Talk Day, the YWC is launching a contest in order to help spread awareness around mental health. The YWC wants to support the hardworking members of SEIU-West and knows many people find it good for their mental health to go relax and see a movie – so by entering you could win a $50 gift card to your local movie theatre!

How to enter: take a picture of yourself with a sign talking about mental health to support Bell Let’s Talk Day on January 30, then send the picture to [email protected]. The picture could be about your experiences with mental health, what mental health means to you, what services we need, or a supportive message – it’s up to you! To start us off, we have Brittney, YWC member, demonstrating that mental illness is not something to be ashamed of.

Together we can stop the stigma and increase support for strong mental health services!

Please send your pictures to [email protected] on Wednesday, January 30.

The SEIU-West Young Workers Committee (YWC) is shining a light on issues that often get pushed into the shadows and aims to break down stigma associated with important issues in our communities by interviewing experts in the field. In the last installment, the YWC shone a light on mental health. In this issue, YWC member Brittney interviews Andrea Howe from the United Way of Saskatoon about domestic violence.

Q: Why is there stigma associated with Domestic Violence (DV)?

A: Some reasons why stigma is often associated with DV are because individuals either do not understand the issue; are not educated about the issue; and/or believe it is a private issue.

Q: How does the stigma affect someone who is seeking help?

Some reasons why stigma could deter a woman from seeking help are she may be ashamed; be fearful about being judged; be afraid to be on her own; be afraid of losing her job; and/or not know what resources or supports are available to her.

Q: How do you help someone who discloses at work that they are a victim of Domestic Violence?

Your role is to show concern and offer support. Do not try to “fix” the situation. Below is a list of ways to assist if a co-worker discloses that she is a victim of DV:

• Tell her you believe her and will support her
• Suggest speaking with a union staff rep to talk about supports available
• Be prepared with information about where to find help at work and in the community
• Ensure she is included in all the decision-making and respect her decisions – even if you do not agree with her choices  

How can SEIU-West members help de-stigmatize DV?

SEIU-West members can help by:

• Completing the two-day DV training offered by SEIU-West. Your union is the first union in Saskatchewan who has offered the two-day training to its members because this issue is important! Encourage other members to take the training too.
• Starting the conversation – at work; at the kitchen table; at the gym – the more we talk about this issue, the less stigma will be attached to it
• Continuing to advocate and lobby for better legislation for DV protections and entitlements
• Bargaining for DV leave and supports into your collective agreement

The Saskatchewan Federation of Labour is currently recruiting to fill a vacancy to the position of Ready for Work Coordinator at the Federation’s Regina office.
The job description for the position is here.
The position is full-time (30 hours per week – Appendix A), and offers very competitive compensation, with excellent benefits, and flexibility. Terms and conditions of employment are set out in the collective agreement between the staff union (CUPE 4828) and the SFL.
Deadline for submission of applications and resumes is 12:00 noon, Monday, January 28, 2019.
Commencement date: As soon as can be arranged.

Please submit applications, complete with resume to:
Recruitment Committee
c/o Lori Johb, President
Saskatchewan Federation of Labour
220 – 2445 – 13th Avenue
Regina, Sask.
S4P 0W1
Fax: (306) 525-8960
e-mail: [email protected]

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women: The SEIU-West Young Workers Committee (YWC) wants you to take action to stop violence against women

December 6th – the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women – is meant to mark the anniversary of the murders in 1989 of 14 young women at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal who were killed because they were women. December 6 acts as a day to recognize and stop the ongoing gender-based violence women experience in Canada, and to ensure awareness and progress towards concrete solutions in eliminating violence against women.

In recognition of the National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women in Canada, the SEIU-West YWC encourages you to do your part in raising awareness on violence against women and to demonstrate your solidarity for those who provide support to women in need. You can do that by participating in their contest – plus you could win one of three fabulous pairs of earrings from Hillberg & Berk; proceeds of which go to survivors of domestic violence in Saskatchewan. There are three chances to be entered to win:

1. Send picture of yourself or a group of SEIU-West members wearing red on December 6th by email to Catherine.[email protected]  
2. Sign and share the YWC petition that calls on the Saskatchewan government to pass legislation to ensure paid work leave for survivors of domestic violence: seiuwest.ca/campaign_paid_leave_for_survivors_of_domestic_violence
3. Donate to your local woman’s shelter – you can take a picture of your donated items and email Catherine.[email protected] or bring donated items to your local SEIU-West office in Moose Jaw, Saskatoon, or Swift Current! 

The deadline to enter is December 14, 2018!

For a list of requested items for women's shelters, visit the Moose Jaw Transition House donations list, the Saskatoon Interval House donations list, and the South West Crisis Services website. 

Shining A Light On…Mental Health

By Brittney Servetnyk, Young Worker Committee Member and CMHA Saskatoon Branch

The SEIU-West Young Workers Committee (YWC) is aiming to shine a light on issues that often get pushed into the shadows – in the last installment, the YWC shone a light on service animals and people with disabilities – in this article, the YWC interviewed staff at the Canadian Mental Health Association who share their insight on mental health, stigma, and suicide as we recognize September as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

Q: Why is there a stigma with mental health? How does it affect a person with mental health?

A: There is stigma associated with mental health problems because of a lack of understanding and information.  Society perceives individuals with mental health problems in a negative manner as a result of the common misconceptions that are often portrayed in the media.

Stigma leaves an individual feeling unable to talk about what they are experiencing because of overwhelming shame, embarrassment, and fear of being rejected. These assumptions made about individual’s living with a mental health problem restrict them from opportunities including basic needs such as housing, nutrition, socialization, financial stability and participating in further education and/or the workforce.

Q: How can mental health education help break the stigma?

A: Mental Health education allows us to change the perceptions and assumptions made about individuals experiencing mental health problems.  It assists in the normalization of mental health so that individuals who are struggling feel like they can talk about it and gain the support they need.  It is important to understand and know how to address mental health so that we can support others as well as take care of our own mental health needs.   

Q: Where can a person reach out for help?

A: If an individual believes they are struggling with their mental health their first step could be to talk to their family doctor, to explore their symptoms or concerns further.  That individual could also ask their doctor for a referral to a psychiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and treatment options.  Other options include therapeutic counselling, community support groups, or physical activity.  However, anytime an individual has questions about mental health, resources or how to support a loved one they can always contact any Canadian Mental Health Association branch.   

Q: Research shows rural and northern communities have higher suicide rates, how do we help address this crisis as a province?

A: It is true that individuals living in rural and northern communities face multiple barriers in accessing mental health services due to their geographical location and as a result are subjected to high rates of isolation.  In particular, individuals struggling with mental health problems in rural areas are unable to access psychiatric care, to provide assessment of symptoms and treatment options.  An alternative to this in rural areas could be additional training for resources already established within the community. For example, social workers who have the required experience and education can now apply to receive an authorized practice endorsement, which allows them to provide an official diagnosis for individuals experiencing mental health problems. Some other alternatives to addressing mental health in the rural areas could include having multidisciplinary teams, collaborative community networks, peer support and telemedicine.

Q: How can we the YWC and all SEIU-West members help?

A: SEIU-West can help spread awareness by talking about it, implementing healthy workplace strategies and taking the initiative to take care of your own mental health. More specifically, in my experiences in the workplace, I have seen a need for education and training to implement healthy workplaces strategies.  Providing adequate training and education options such as Mental Health First Aid or the Psychological Health and Safety Standard for the select staff or support people is essential to best address mental health in the workplace.

SEIU-West is taking action on mental health awareness by incorporating it into our union training sessions such as Unionism in Practice, Duty to Accommodate, Facing Management Level II, our Domestic Violence Workshops and our upcoming OH&S course. We have also sponsored members to attend Mental Health First Aid. For more information, please contact [email protected].