Here is the summary of our December meeting:
Thank you to all those who were able to attend the December General Meeting.
We welcomed Kole Lawrence and Shatelle Bishop members of TRUSU who presented the TRUSU campaign to end Canada’s discriminatory blood ban that prohibits MSM (men who have sex with Men) and trans women from donating blood. TRUSU’s campaign is proposing Canada move to a behaviour based blood donation model versus an identity based blood donation model currently being used in Canada. Many countries have adopted the behaviour based model. Since the 80’s the blood ban has gone from 100 % ban to in recent years a 3 month ban. This 3 month ban still discriminates against persons in monogamous and in long term relationships who practise safe sex. The membership passed a motion to support the “End the Blood Ban” campaign through letter writing, emails and social media.
Trustees Navin Jain and Linda Fleck presented the findings from the audit. Overall the Trustees were very happy with how the Finances and the books were being handled on the membership’s behalf. Treasurer, Lyn Ferec thanked the Trustees and responded that the recommendations brought forward were good ones and would be implemented. We would like to thank Linda, Navin and Cristian for their excellent work.
Motions were passed at the meeting to approve our annual holiday donations and to increase them from $100 to $200 using the money we would have spent on the Christmas Social. We will be donating to the BCSPCA, the Kamloops Food Bank, YMCA Women’s Shelter, the Mustard Seed, TRU Student Union Food Bank, Out of the Cold and Christmas Amalgamated.
CUOE 4879 usually supports the Annual Shoe and Red Dress Memorial sponsored by the KDLC. The event was cancelled this year due to COVID so the organizers asked affiliates to donate to the Y- Women’s Shelter or the Kamloops Sexual Assault Counseling Centre (KSACC). The membership passed a motion to donate $200 to the KSACC.
Congrats to Navin Jain acclaimed as the 2nd VP, Linda Fleck acclaimed for the Labour Management Committee and Evelyn Penny for the Negotiations Committee Alternate position, all 2 year terms starting in January. In addition, Kamala Johal has joined the Communications Committee and Shop Steward, Cynthia Bosdet will continue to be on the Social Committee. Again we would like to thank everyone who has served on the committees, let their names stand and who will serve on committees. Your commitment and time is appreciated by the membership.
Reminder that we will be holding the election for the JE Alternate position and we will also be electing a 2 year position for Trustee who will replace Navin.
The CUPE 4879 holiday wheel was spun at the meeting to draw prizes supporting local business. The list of prizes and winners was posted on our CUPE List. Thank you to everyone who participated and congratulations to our winners.
We know this may be a difficult and challenging holiday season for everyone and some may be struggling more than others. A reminder that our Hardship Fund is available till June. Please contact cupe4879@shaw.ca if you would like a form to complete. Your name and information will be kept confidential.
On behalf of the Executive and myself we would like to wish you all the best of the season. Please take care of yourselves. Be safe and be well.