CJLC Congratulates the Newly Elected Jewish OPSEU Caucus Members
The Canadian Jewish Labour Committee congratulates the Jewish members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) on achieving an Executive Board-approved Jewish Members Caucus. This past week, the Jewish members elected their first Caucus executive, overwhelmingly choosing fellow Jewish members who truly represent the vast majority of the Jewish OPSEU community. In truth, it can be noted that the incoming Caucus executive reflects the broader Jewish community as well.
With Jewish members now an official component of OPSEU’s equity program, they have:
- A voice at the table...access to the Board and to the annual policy Convention, which greatly improves the credibility of the Jewish members, the development of policy to ensure safety for Jewish union members, and programs like antisemitism training from credible providers; it is an application of the principle "nothing about us, without us"
- Union staff support for communications with Jewish members and developing education and awareness programs
- Inclusion in the Union's equity program and an opportunity to form productive relationships with Union members from other equity groups
- A seat at the table at meetings of equity group leaders
This is a major move forward for the Jewish members of OPSEU. This resulted from months of organizing, preparation, and careful planning. It was a classic example of effective grassroots mobilization. These Jewish activists faced considerable opposition from within the Union, and they responded by staying focused and by remaining united in their pursuit of their goals.
For information or assistance, contact CJLC. We are here to help.
