What is your role (s) in the union?
I was recently elected President of Directly Chartered Local 73100 (DCL) for the Salvation Army Booth Centre on October 22, 2019.
When did you first get involved and why?
I decided to get involved because of my past experiences with employees and the union. I have been an employee with the Salvation Army for the past nine years, and I have witnessed a lot of challenges and issues that employees have faced, myself included. We have lost many good workers as a result of these workplace issues. One of the main problems we see with my local is lack of communication and respect for one another. Many of my colleagues are losing hope but I intend to stick around so I will do whatever is needed to bring back solidarity and ensure members are united. I am taking courses with PSAC and we’re rebuilding our local. If you want to make a change, you need to get involved!
What are some of the victories and campaigns you’ve worked on?
My personal victory would be the recent local election. I felt honored members voted for me as president. As part of the campaign, I gave a three minute speech, and I spoke from the heart about my concerns and why we need to strengthen our union. I am still new and our local is comprised of a brand new executive team as well who are learning their roles. There is much we need to learn and I am always open to new ideas and suggestions from members and the union. I am also hoping to utilize all the resources PSAC offers so that we will have that strong local that members will support.
What would you say to others who are thinking about getting involved?
I would tell other members who are thinking of getting involved to go for it and that you can make a difference in your workplace! One of the biggest challenges that deters people from getting involved is that they feel as though they aren't good enough because they don't really understand the different roles or requirements. After attending the PSAC New Officers training and conference this month, I learned that PSAC has many different resources and dedicated leaders available to help or support each other which will make a huge difference to my work in the union.