National Women's Task Force

[Sep 12, 2007 12:27 PM]

 

Two years ago at the 2005 CUPE National Convention in Winnipeg, Resolution 106 was passed by the convention delegates and established a 16- member National Women’s Task Force (NWTF), which represented regional, sectoral and cultural diversity.  The Task Force mandate was to gather information about the situation of women in our union and review our education and leadership programs; investigate equality needs and possible ways to change the structure in order to address these needs; make recommendations on programs and structural changes that would advance women and equality; and report back to the 2007 National Convention our findings.

T hose members chosen to represent Saskatchewan on the National Task Force were Geraldine Harris and Hitomi Suzuta.  Elaine Ehman was assigned as the staff advisor.  The Saskatchewan members connected with the Provincial Women’s Committee and had the assistance of Kathleen Brannen, Vicky O’Dell and Rona Tyson.  In an effort to consult members and locals throughout the province, we had an opportunity to provide presentations at sectoral meetings, schools, conventions and other events in order to raise the profile and educate members on our task.

 

 

We welcomed the open and frank discussions that we had with active and non-active local members.  Through these group meetings throughout the province, we had a chance to have those one on one “kitchen table” discussions about our local issues.  These focus groups were held throughout the country and this information was combined with a written survey as well as a survey that went to each local.

 

From the feedback we received, the Task Force drafted recommendations that were presented to the 2007 division conventions across the country.  Adjustments were made and a set of recommendations and the final reports are now ready for presentation at the National Convention in October.  It should be noted that many of the recommendations have already in progress.  We encourage all Saskatchewan Convention delegates to read the reports and be sure to attend the Saskatchewan/Manitoba Caucus from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Sunday, October 14 in order to raise questions and discuss the issues with us.  As well, we would ask for you to support a multi-year, long range plan to address issues raised by the Task Force.

 

As a final note, we would like to thank the members, the Saskatchewan Women’s Committee, the provincial staff led by Jim Swaok, Erin Morrison and the Saskatchewan Executive who all provided assistance in our work.  Without the help of staff members, our work would have been much more difficult to accomplish.  We can not thank you enough for the countless hours you contributed in addition to your normal work load.  As well, we thank all the Saskatchewan local members for their support of our work.

In Solidarity,

Geraldine Harris and Hitomi Suzuta