Save the Date: Annual General Assembly on April 3rd!

 

Mark your calendars! Our Annual General Assembly (AGA) is scheduled for April 3rd at 5:30 p.m. It's a crucial gathering where we discuss important matters and set the course for the upcoming year.

This is also an exciting opportunity to announce that we're gearing up for elections! If you're interested in contributing to our community and want to play a role in shaping your union, consider signing up for a position! 

We encourage eager members to express their interest by emailing pres@cupe2626.ca for more information.

 

Save the date!

Celebrating Black History Month: A Time for Reflection and Action

 

Black History Month is a poignant time to celebrate the rich history and culture of Black communities, honor their leaders, and reflect on the ongoing fight for liberation. While this recognition is essential, it's crucial to acknowledge that Black history is not limited to a single month - it should be celebrated and remembered every day.

As we mark progress in Canadian society, we must recognize that people of African descent still face differential treatment, particularly during the ongoing pandemic and the crisis of over-policing. CUPE's Anti-Racism Strategy guides us in challenging systemic racism, advocating for meaningful change for Black, Indigenous, and racialized members.

Our union is committed to combating racism and hatred in all its forms. We encourage members to actively stand against racism, raise awareness, and be agents of change. Let's celebrate Black History Month by fostering understanding, increasing awareness, and working together for a more inclusive and just society.

Don't miss DARC Night School's free event February 15th from 6-8pm - "Being Masters of Our Stories." In honor of Black History Month, Patrick Kabeya will explore the transformative power of storytelling, celebrating the diverse narratives of African creators.

Drop by the CUPE 2626 offices to pick up your Black History Month bookmark paying tribute to Nell Toussaint, a human rights defender who tirelessly advocated for universal healthcare, regardless of immigration status.

Navigating the Budget: What You Need to Know

Delving into the intricacies of the January 18 and 31 budget updates reveals some crucial
insights demanding our attention!

As we have previously said, the 2023-2024 budget actually had a projected global budget
surplus of 28 million dollars, challenging our President, Mr. Jacques Frémont’s, narrative in his January 18 update.

In their analysis of the January 18 and 31 updates that we highly encourage you to read, the
APUO decries the central administration’s lack of consultation and transparency regarding the University’s budgetary decisions and they righfully highlight the dubious nature of the over 45
million dollar expenditure on Workday and the still undisclosed nature of the 50 million dollars
spent on "professional fees and contractual services".

All while our scholarships and funding are on the chopping block, the blame game on staff
continued. We stand in solidarity with APUO and also demand that M. Frémont and the Board of
Governors immediately initiate consultations with the unions on campus to make good on their
word of prioritizing the research and education mission of the University of Ottawa.

We also demand that the Central Administration lobby the provincial government to increase the funding allocated to postsecondary education and cease lobbying to lift the tuition freeze, the latter of which serves no purpose other than putting the burden of an underfunded system on already precarious students!

We will keep you all updated during consultations, if there are any. We will also be announcing in the coming weeks a collaborative workshop to unravel together more budget intracacies – Stay tuned!

International Student Permit Cap: A Closer Look

The recent announcement of a two-year cap on international student permits, as covered in this CBC article, has sparked conversations within CUPE Ontario and CUPE National. While the government claims it's a response to housing concerns, our sector, represented by the Ontario University Workers Coordinating Committee (OUWCC), responded by highlighting deeper issues.

CUPE Ontario and CUPE National asserts that this move might be driven by xenophobia, reflecting an unfortunate trend. The cap, seen as a misguided solution, diverts attention from the underfunding crisis in Ontario's post-secondary sector. Our stance emphasizes that migrants are not to blame for the housing crisis.

Stay tuned for further insights and updates on our ongoing efforts in addressing crucial issues like housing and advocating for adequate funding in the education sector.

Recognition in CCPA Report: Elevating the Impact of Our Advocacy

 

We are thrilled to share that CUPE 2626 received a noteworthy mention in the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) report on restoring post-secondary funding in Ontario. Our union's dedication to advocating for fair budgets during the Spring/Fall, along with impactful calls to action, has been acknowledged for its significant role.

The report highlights the critical link between funding levels and education quality, emphasizing the detrimental impact of budget cuts on faculty-student contact. As class sizes increase, faculty's ability to provide mentorship and essential support diminishes, affecting the overall learning experience. Our union's continuous efforts to address these issues and champion better professor-to-student ratios align with the essential goal of enhancing education quality.

This recognition affirms the value and impact of our collective work. As we navigate the challenges of funding cuts, let's continue our advocacy to ensure a high-quality education for all.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Organizing for Power's Core Fundamentals Training

Join us for the Organizing for Power's Core Fundamentals program, a transformative 6-week skills-based training starting from May 7 to June 11, 2024. Sessions run twice weekly for 2.5 hours each, catering to a global audience. 

This essential training, led by Jane McAlevey and hosted by the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, has empowered over 35,000 organizers from 110 countries. Learn the five core fundamentals of organizing, essential for building disciplined majorities and winning campaigns.

Registration is exclusively open to groups of 10+. If interested, contact comm@cupe2626.ca and join the CUPE 2626 team.

Let us know by April 26th - only a few spots remain! 

Share Your Voice: Influence Our Union's Path!

Wondering how to steer CUPE 2626 towards your priorities? Your insights are key! In our democratic organization, your opinions directly influence executive decisions, making your engagement essential.

Beyond staying informed, your preferences on events, communication, and feedback shape our union. Participate in our quick survey for the 2024-2025 Executive Board mandate to actively contribute to our democracy.

The more we know, the better we streamline what's important to you.  Let us know where you want to see our annual donations go and

Take the mandate survey

 

Join Us as a Steward: Spots Still Available

Elevate your involvement by becoming a Steward! We are actively recruiting passionate members to take on this essential role in our union. Stewards play a vital part in representing members, addressing workplace concerns, and fostering solidarity.

If you're interested in joining the Steward team or want more details about the role, reach out to our Steward representatives:

  • rep.delegue.franco@cupe2626.ca
  • anglo.stewards.rep@cupe2626.ca

Submissions Open: Share Your Graduate Student Experience!

Join our impactful campaign by submitting your unique story! Illuminate the daily financial challenges graduate students face – your experiences, shared through video, photo, interview, voiceover, or anonymously, contribute to a powerful collective voice for change.

From the personal impact of budget cuts to how resource reductions affect personal and professional life, your stories will be featured on our social media, creating a resonant narrative. By humanizing financial challenges, we aim to pressure the university for change.

Your submission isn't just a contribution; it's a vital spark that ignites conversations for a better future. 

Learn more about how to get involved here.

Quick Reminder:

Please continue to diligently track your hours and, if necessary, complete the Workload Review Form and/or discuss any concerns with your supervisor.  

Your active participation strengthens our collective voice and ensures fair working conditions!

 
 

 

Mark your calendars for our upcoming Coffee with CUPE session:

February 15th, 1-3pm in the SITE foyer

We can't wait to see you again and continue our conversations!

 

Add to calendar

Addressing Food Insecurity: Resources for Students

In light of the challenges many students face with food insecurity, we want to share valuable resources available on campus. The Multifaith Chaplaincy, part of the university's mental health and wellness strategy, has opened a food pantry to support students in need.

Location: Deja Vu 232B

Open Hours:

  • Monday: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

For additional resources (on and off-campus), please find more information here.

Workshop Recap: Thank You for joining us in the fight against Gender-Based Violence!

A sincere thank you to everyone who participated in the crucial workshop on combating gender-based violence, presented by Amina from the Sexual Assault Support Center of Ottawa (SASCO). We appreciate those who attended in person, joined via Zoom, or followed the session on Instagram Live—your engagement made this event impactful.

For those who missed the workshop, you can watch the full session here or view the presentation pdf here. We value your commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive community.

Stay tuned for more educational events, coming soon!

Connect & Chat with our Bargain Support Committee

Join us for a casual get-together with members of our Bargain Support Committee on February 15th in the FTX foyer from 12 PM to 2 PM.

Grab a slice, meet the team, and talk about bargaining!

Find out about where things stand with negotiations and come discuss bargaining priorities.
 

Tune In Now: CUPE Cast Episode 33 

Dive into the legacy and future of Black History with the latest CUPE Cast podcast episode!

In recognition of Black History Month, Episode 33 explores the significance of celebrating this important month in February. Join the conversation with special guest Christopher Wilson, First Vice-President of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionist Ontario Chapter, as we delve into the rich tapestry of Black history.

Don't miss this insightful episode – tune in now to CUPE Cast!

Act Now: Stop Canada's Complicity in Genocide!

 

The ICJ ruled that Israel's military actions in Gaza may be genocide, prompting emergency intervention. In alignment with CUPE National's official statement on the ICJ ruling, let's leverage this decision to demand that Canada ends its complicity in these crimes.

Tell Canada to Stop Arming Genocide! With no justification post-ICJ, Canada must adhere to international law and impose an immediate arms embargo.

Send a strong message to Trudeau and Joly now! We can't let Canada evade accountability.

Send Labour for Palestine's one-click letter and sign Parliamentary Petition e4745 now!

University of Waterloo Joins CUPE!

Exciting news – over 2,000 graduate teaching assistants and research assistants at the University of Waterloo are now proud members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE)! With a remarkable 90% approval in the late-December vote recognized by the Ontario Labour Relations Board, these academic workers are set to negotiate their first collective agreement with the university.

Join us in welcoming them to the CUPE family and read more about it here.

Take a Stand: Sign the Petition Against Big Banks!

Canadian banks, including RBC, TD, and BMO, resist a government proposal to lower predatory installment loan rates from 48% APR to 35%. Send an email urging banks to endorse fair lending practices and prioritize the well-being of low- and moderate-income individuals.

Despite their claims of community building, these banks jeopardize financial well-being by promoting predatory lending. Lowering rates could save people $26 million; it's time for responsible action.  ACORN surveys reveal installment loans cause deep debt, with 80% reporting stress, anxiety, and depression.

Act against predatory practices today.

Take a Stand: End Attacks on Palestinian Scholars in Gaza

Join us in denouncing the Israeli persecution of Palestinian academics and the destruction of education infrastructure in Gaza. CUPE 2626 actively participates in endorsing and signing Justice for All Canada's letter urging higher education institutions to take action against these atrocities.

Your input is crucial.  Fill out the Google Form as an individual here. 

Take the time to amplify Palestinian voices and perspectives through art and storytelling and by learning more about their unique history.
 

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About Us

CUPE 2626 represents thousands of Teaching and Research Assistants, Correctors, Tutors, Lab Monitors, Demonstrators, Proctors, Lifeguards and Residence Life Workers at the University of Ottawa.

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