Union values have been a recent focus within several contexts: the Federal Government’s proposed industrial relations (IR) changes; the March4Justice; Palm Sunday and refugee issues; the Uluru Statement from the Heart; and the 30th anniversary of the report of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody.
What are union values? Most IEU members would agree that acting collectively to support each other in the workplace is at the heart of who we are and what we do as union members.
These values of care, respect and support are also consistent with the ethos of faith-based employers.
Other union values include:
- safe and supportive work environments
- freedom from discrimination and harassment
- fair and inclusive employment, career development and leadership opportunities for all staff
- social justice and human rights at workplace, community, national and global levels.
In a recent interview with the IEU, First Nations educator and activist Thomas Mayor outlined the connection between union values and the social justice theme of Makarrata (coming together after a struggle), righting past wrongs and living together in peace.
While protecting and advancing the industrial, WHS and professional interests of members will always be a major IEU priority, human rights and social justice issues are also a strong focus.
This includes advocating against unfair industrial laws; seeking pay equity for early childhood teachers and support staff; ending gendered harassment and violence; promoting the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the campaign for Voice, Treaty, Truth; supporting refugees and asylum seekers; and engaging with environmental protection initiatives.
In some recent presentations to IEU members who have reached 40 or more years of membership, these members have commented on the IEU’s values – the collective spirit in the workplace, a commitment to protecting and advancing the interests of members and a strong focus on justice issues.
“I am confident my union will always stand up on our pay and conditions and will also speak out on important social issues such as discrimination and climate change,” said one 40-year member.
At the 2021 IEU Activists’ Conference there was discussion about the role of the union making a difference at work and beyond, in valuing the professional judgement of teachers, and having the time for genuine engagement with students and their needs.
Teachers and support staff focus on teaching and learning for a better world for the young people in their care. Union values are about achieving this better world through action in the workplace, in the community and at national and global levels.
