Greetings, everyone! I wanted to take a moment to update you on what your union executive have been up to this summer:
Union solidarity
We have been busy building up relationships with other CUPE locals on campus (CUPE 116 and 2950), and writing letters of support to back up the BC Teachers’ Federation in their current job action. We will also be sending delegates to the Coalition of Graduate Employee Unions Conference in August, to meet with other TA unions from across North America.
Bargaining
In preparation for the next round of bargaining, beginning some time in the fall, we are evaluating the results of our membership survey, compiling data from similar collective agreements, and drafting language proposals.
Local business
We are re-writing our bylaws! Key changes include rules to encourage more diversity among union executive representation, and moving elections from October to January to avoid conflicts with bargaining. We hope that moving the elections will allow newer TAs to join the executive once they’ve had time to establish themselves at UBC. Once this document is ready, we will present it to the membership for approval. This should happen in the winter or early spring.
Preparing for fall
We are getting the ball rolling on training and orientation sessions with members in each department.
We hope that everyone is having a productive and fun summer! Enjoy the sunshine!
In solidarity,
Trish Everett
CUPE 2278 President
