The USW District 3 Conference concluded today with a focus on advancing health and safety in the workplace for everybody.
The conference opened with remarks from former USW National Director Ken Neumann, who emphasized the strength of solidarity and support within the union. Neumann, reflecting on his own journey since joining USW at 18, spoke passionately about the union’s impact on his life over the past 45+ years and shared stories of wisdom, success and activism.
“I can say to you here today, had it not been for the United Steelworkers, I would not be here today and I’m very grateful for everything that this union has done and all of the training that I have had the opportunity to take was through this great union,” said Neumann, closing his address by encouraging delegates to “continue to kick some ass for the working class!”
Delegates got up to speak in support of various resolutions advocating for issues including resource sector job support, ending gender-based violence and promoting workplace health and safety.
Ed Kent, District 3 Health, Safety and Environment Coordinator, delivered a report on Occupational Health & Safety, taking a moment to honour members lost since the last District 3 Conference in 2018.
In his report, Kent highlighted that bullying and harassment pose significant health and safety risks for our members.
“It’s what workers experience in almost every single workplace. I believe we need to compel those employers to acknowledge that bullying and harassment in the workplace is an actual hazard and we need to take proactive measures to address it,” said Kent.
Kent also introduced the new “Make Shit Better!” campaign. As part of the initiative, USW surveyed members on workplace washroom conditions. Kent presented a new video of members reading real member stories and sharing their responses and highlighting the need for change. Watch the “Make Shit Better!” video here.
Additionally, Marjorie Jenkins of USW Local 9074 received the sixth and final Outstanding Service Award, honouring her dedication and service to the membership.
The day also featured a range of workshops on topics such as the right to refuse unsafe work, incident investigation, the union’s role on joint committees, international solidarity through the Steelworkers Humanity Fund, raising the bar on women’s health and safety and mental health and safety in the workplace.
Two delegates won travel vouchers, generously donated by WE Union Travel / WE Benefits & Consulting and Direct Travel. Congratulations to the winners!
To wrap up the conference, delegates participated in Women of Steel, as well as steel, mining and smelting causes. The Family Community and Education Fund also hosted a luncheon for members of contributing locals.
Director Scott Lunny concluded the USW District 3 conference by reinforcing the theme “Better Work for Everybody.”
“That’s what we do every day – at the bargaining table, in grievance arbitration when we conduct investigation of hazards, when we train our H&S committees on investigations, when we lobby for Westray and for better labour laws to protect our jobs and when we vote for politicians that have our backs,” said Lunny.
Lunny thanked delegates for what they do as Steelworkers.
“It makes a difference; you make a difference. You make work better and you make life better… better for everybody. Thank you for making our union better and using our union to make our workplaces better, for making the lives of USW members better. Better for everybody,” added Lunny.
USW District 3 thanks all the delegates, staff and support staff, our generous sponsors and the hardworking hotel staff for a successful conference in Winnipeg.
Wishing all of our members a very happy and safe Halloween, Diwali and Deepavali.
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