political action noun : action designed to attain a purpose by the use of political power or by activity in political channels specifically : such action by organized labor through recognized political means (as participation in party organization, in elections, and by lobbying) —contrasted with direct action https://www.merriam-webster.com
As a union it is important that we organize our efforts as working people to make our voices heard by our elected public officials regarding municipal, provincial and federal politic/issues.
Becoming politically active can often seem overwhelming – there are so many issues that need to be addressed!
WHAT ISSUES SHOULD I GET INVOLVED WITH?
- One that is important to YOU
- One that is important to your neighbours, family, or community
- One that is important to your colleagues
- One that is important to your clients
TYPES OF POLITICAL ACTION ISSUES:
Your Union specific issues (ie/ CUPE National Fix Long Term Care campaign directly impacts the work of our Lodge Unit members or when your Collective Agreement is being bargained, supporting the bargaining team)
Labour related issues (OFL $15 and Fairness is about ensuring all workers have living wage)
Social justice issues (Black Lives Matters is about bringing attention and action to the racial inequities that impact black people; for example, why are young black men experiencing such high rates of police brutality?)
Public service issues (CUPE Ontario Communities Not Cuts campaign is about protecting our public services such as healthcare, education and community services)
We are all constantly juggling work, family, and social responsibilities. Adding “political action” to our to-do lists may seem like just one more thing we have to do! But remember you are not alone and there are various levels of involvement.
WHAT CAN I DO TO BE POLITICALLY ACTIVE?
- Stay up to date and aware of current issues and participate in the associated political action events
- Talk to your neighbours and co-workers about political action issues
- Join an organizational committee or council in your community
- Speak out and attend an organizational town hall meetings or forums
- Attend rallies and protests
- Write to your City Councillor (Municipal), MPP (Provincial) or MP (Federal) about a political action issue (often they take a few seconds as campaigns have done the work)
- Go a step further and meet with your local government representatives
- Share information on social media
- Sign online and hardcopy petitions
- Run for position in your union or community, there are many opportunities out there!
- VOTE!! Make an informed vote on who is representing you at the municipal, provincial and federal levels!!
If we work together with family, friends, and colleagues,
the easier political action it is to accomplish!!
Links to Political Action:
Care Not Profits Campaign (CUPE, Unifor, SIEU joint campaign)
Campaign Request Form 2021 – Fillable