There have been some concerns brought forward by our members regarding the future of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and what that means for our local. Your CUPE Local 998 executive is strongly committed to a Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive workplace culture.
CUPE 998 has a seat at the table with other unions and employee representatives on the Manitoba Hydro Diversity Council. This group discusses various DEI opportunities and concerns faced by employees. The council also supports learning and growth opportunities and activities for all employees within our organization that contribute to a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all.
Manitoba Hydro is committed to DEI awareness, education and support within our workplace. Examples include the creation of employee resource groups (ERGs) to engage employees in generating awareness and a supportive workplace culture; mandatory anti-racism training provided by the provincial government; and promoting DEI in the workplace through events and activities shared through internal communications and on a New Diversity Calendar which highlights upcoming diversity days and events.
Our local is very active on several human rights committees covering all levels of engagement, including provincial, national, and global. These groups have been actively fighting against all forms of discrimination and hate for several years now through protests, counter protests, donations, and awareness events. We are committed to continuing this fight to improve and protect the human rights of workers and to educate our local communities on the importance of DEI in our society.
CUPE follows very strict protocols when complaints are made, and it is expected that all members adhere to the Equality Statement provided by CUPE National.
This year our local 998 (EROC) Equal Rights and Opportunity Committee plans on increasing our focus on member engagement so that we can build a stronger active local of diverse union activists through education, outreach, and visibility.
If you are experiencing any form of hate or discrimination, have questions regarding what you have read or want to know how to become more involved in our union please message us at ASK CUPE.
In Solidarity,
Your Local 998 Executive