At the recent CUPE Alberta Convention, our President, Wael Elrafih, spoke on behalf of CUPE Local 4731 in support of an important resolution. In advance of the convention, our Local collaborated with Locals 417, 408, 3351, and 4797 to gather their support and secure their endorsement for this resolution. The resolution was then brought to the floor for voting, and we are proud to announce that it was accepted unanimously by all delegates in attendance.
General Resolution 2025-22
Submitted by: CUPE Local 4731, 417, 408, 3551, 4797
Resolution:
CUPE Alberta Division will create a divisional committee and campaign dedicated to addressing the issues facing the social services sector. The committee will focus on advocating for fair funding, job security, and improved working conditions for social services workers. The campaign will highlight the critical role of social services workers in supporting the most vulnerable populations and the challenges they face due to changing government and funder mandates.
Rationale:
- The social services sector is seeing a rise in unionization and organizing efforts, underscoring the need for a unified voice and collective action.
- Government and funding bodies have shifted their mandates, imposing new expectations on social service organizations that result in budget cuts, layoffs, and drastic changes to essential programs.
- Social services workers care for the most vulnerable members of society, yet they are often paid so poorly that they must rely on the same food banks and shelters they help their clients navigate.
- The lack of stable funding and fair wages in the sector leads to high turnover, burnout, and an inability to provide consistent, quality care to those who rely on social services.
- A dedicated campaign and committee will provide resources, support, and advocacy to ensure social services workers receive the respect, fair compensation, and job security they deserve.
We are proud to have had our voices heard at the convention and will continue to advocate for the critical support our social services workers deserve.