Gains made, but more work needed to reach equality

CEIU national women’s conference held in montreal

Delegates to the union’s National Women’s Conference measured the gains made by women in recent years, but recognized the distance to be traveled before real equality is reached.

In a speech to delegates, National President Jeannette Meunier-McKay gave credit to the women of CEIU for the gains that have been made: “It is thanks to many in this room, and many who went before, that we have made important gains for the women of this union. We have always had the courage to act—against the employer, against the politicians and against those who stood in the way of women’s equality.” However, she went on to note the work ahead, pointing in particular to widening pay gaps between men and women. “We’re slipping backwards!” she told delegates, and urged them to participate in the year-long Canadian Labour Congress campaign Equality! Once and for all!

Delegates combined their discussion of women’s issues with practical aid for those with pressing needs. The proceeds from a silent auction as well as a food donation were presented to La Maison de Lina Holmes, a Montreal women’s shelter.

The current round of bargaining was a major focus of attention for delegates, with the shift work issue in the lead. The employer is pushing for contract changes that would make it far easier to convert day workers to shift workers. National Vice-President for Women’s Issues (Quebec), Francine Vézina, outlined the impact that shift work would have on all members, but on women in particular. Delegate Jo-Anne Mousseau (Local 20975, Victoria) summed up the views of delegates on this issue: “This will be very disruptive to the quality of life and family life. Women already bear the brunt of family responsibilities, whether it’s child-rearing, household activities or caring for ageing parents, but to do all of this while working shifts would leave very little time for them or their families.”

Delegates left in an upbeat mood, according to the union’s national president. “Women in this union are strong and they’re proud of their accomplishments” said Jeannette Meunier-McKay, “and this conference gave them a real boost to do more.”