CLOSED: Foundational Learning Workshops for Stewards Course for Federal Public Service Members

Six Foundational Learning Workshops for Stewards modules will be delivered over three days. This course is open to all PSAC North members in good standing working in the Federal Public Service who are currently Shop Stewards or are interested in becoming one.

About

Why Unions? 

• Recognize and talk about how unions are good for workers and for broader society
• Know a little more about the labour movement and about the history of the PSAC
• Identify current trends and challenges for the labour movement and broader society
• Explore ways that the Steward can engage, and encourage members to engage, in broader labour, environmental and social justice issues

Role of the Steward

• Understand what the role of a Steward is
• Know what the rights of Stewards are
• Understand where Stewards fit in our union 
• Identify how Stewards can help to build a strong membership

Grievances: the Basics

• Define what a grievance is and identify types of grievances outlined in the collective agreement. 
• Review the steps in the grievance process as outlined in the collective agreement.
• Look at the role of the Steward as it relates to the grievance procedure.
• Discuss how PSAC manages grievances internally.
• Identify challenges related to grievance handling and look at ways to address the challenges. 

Working Strategically Through Conflict 

• Recognize when conflict emerges.
• Develop an understanding of how to strategically deal with conflict as a Steward.
• Practice dealing with conflict, and having difficult conversations and confrontations.

Engagement and Equity: Anti-Oppressive Framework for Stewards 

• Assess power, privilege, and oppression in the worksite
• Explain what an anti-oppressive practice is and how it contributes to an equitable and inclusive workplace
• Develop and apply a framework for anti-oppressive practice in their own work

Trauma Informed Advocacy

• Understand what trauma is and how to best support members affected by it
• Explore best practices for trauma-informed advocacy as a Steward.
• Identify ways to integrate trauma-informed practice in all aspects of our work as Stewards.

PSAC will pay for travel, accommodation, loss of salary and benefits (where applicable). Family care will be reimbursed in accordance with PSAC’s Family Care Policy. In addition, participants residing in Yellowknife are entitled to claim $50.00 per day to offset transportation and lunch costs.

PSAC is committed to ensuring that our members’ accessibility requirements are respected. Please indicate your needs and provide any necessary explanations to help us meet them.

Application

APPLICATIONS FOR THIS COURSE ARE CLOSED

The course will be limited to 20 participants.

Should you require any additional information or assistance, please contact PSAC North Regional Education Officer Ian Brown.

Want to stay up to date with PSAC North events and activities? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.