Just to let you know that any information that comes out of the current bargaining session will be posted on the Mobilzation page at http://opseu245.org/opseu245_mobilization.cfm

Linda Nelson, Mobilization Team, OPSEU Local 245

Why bother… I’m not the union type… I wouldn’t know what to do… I don’t have time… They’re not doing things the way I think they should…

I’ve experienced all of the thoughts above at some time since I found myself a Local 245 member a little over seven years ago. I didn’t know I was joining a union when I accepted my job here and I didn’t think I needed one either. So why did I get involved?

I was introduced to the union because not long after starting my employment a situation developed that needed changing. Without going into the gory details it was with the help of the union and Local 245 members that the issue was resolved. Afterward I was grateful and thought it only right I give back a little support in return. It’s a nice story and likely not uncommon. But truthfully it’s not why I’m involved.

I can’t ask my boss for a raise. Or an increase in benefits. Or increased vacation. If I did I couldn’t expect to get it. Not the way I might in a non-union environment. The fact is that I have chosen to work in an environment bound by a collective agreement and employee/employer negotiation is not done on an individual basis (at least in theory, but that’s another discussion unto itself).

I have only one tool to use in my attempt to receive the value and respect I deserve so I want the strongest tool possible. Since OPSEU is that tool I want the strongest OPSEU possible. I want a strong, active union. And I want a strong active Local 245.

Despite all my objections I know that the best way for me to strengthen my union, my local and my chances of getting fair value and respect from my employer is by getting involved. I still don’t really know what to do but I’m learning. If I don’t like the way things are being done, I tell them. I only put in the time I want, when I can. I’m still not the union type… but someone has to do it.

I’m in it for me, but if we’re all in it for me then the union is in it for us.

Fred Oliver