Dean Lailey’s story continued,

When I first became a steward Toni Murray reached out to me with a suggestion to connect to the local Labour Council (L/C). I did and have been on the executive of the West Kootenay Region Labour Council for approximately four years.

For most members there is not a huge time commitment required- simply attend a monthly meeting (in person or Teams etc). Members are from a multitude of professions and include local presidents, stewards, biz reps etc as well as individuals representing various charitable organizations. CUPE, IBEW, BCGEU, HEU, BCTF, CEU, UWBC & CLC are all represented in this region and bring a variety of issues to each and every meeting. I truly value hearing and talking to other union rep’s who have many of the same issues as we have in the CEU but bring slightly different view points to the discussion.  Despite most meetings being on Teams (geographically this is a huge region from Grand Forks to Kalso and all points in between) there is still a strong social connection between all members and a desire to support each other.  

What I truly value is the ability to give back to the local community. From supporting local picket lines with donuts and coffee to providing donations to fund those less fortunate such as food banks, pre-school breakfasts, clothing for the less fortunate. Union membership is not required of any charitable group who may approach us looking for a donation.  My labour council puts on a labour day picnic every year and provides hot dogs, hamburgers, pop, chips and live music as well as bouncy castles etc for the kids to enjoy – all free of charge.  All members are encouraged to support a regional cause whether that be providing menstrual products to the women’s shelter or providing a free parking meter close to social services and a multitude of other ‘small” but significant causes that truly do make a difference to the community and to the individuals receiving the help.

Labour concerns such as fair bargaining, gig economy workers, worker safety and training, worker rights, EDI issues, equal opportunity for women and visible minorities are just some of the issues that end up being discussed with members of the council. How much you want to get involved with each or every issue is up to you.  

Labour Councils are social, inviting, community minded and provide a great “united” meeting place for all union members to participate with like minded individuals. I would strongly encourage anyone to reach out and contact their council and attend a few meetings- who knows you might actually enjoy the experience. I did and still do.

Written by, Dean Lailey, CEU Shop Steward