The level of member activism in workplaces – such as our schools – is dependent on the function of union chapters at grassroots. In fact, your chapter is a fundamental unit of the union’s structure. The IEU has helpful organisational material, online and in print, for chapter representatives and their chapters.
For many members in schools, the IEU representative is the embodiment of the union, and the Rep’s knowledge and skills are sought at times of stress, dispute and crisis. Reps, however, should not feel that they need to face workplace issues alone, nor do they possess industrial experience to go in it alone. This is where open and frank discussions with union organisers is key. A strong and active Rep makes for a strong and active chapter.
Distinctively, member activism is productive engagement in chapter meetings. Meetings give members a sense of power. Solidarity. Members can hear and see and feel that they are not alone; that others have similar issues, and that together, solutions can be found.
An effective chapter representative has their finger on the pulse of the school environment, and can gauge the tenor of the workplace – often because many of the concerns are raised in this context. The unified role of union Rep and chapter is crucial in maintaining workplace practices and conditions. I urge you to strengthen your chapter and support your rep. Arm yourself with enterprise agreements, work practices agreements and multi-enterprise agreements, and know your rights. You have a united voice. It is strong. Use it.
On another note...
At the time of publication, it is NAIDOC week and the scope of activities and events in my LGA are wide and varied. This year’s theme, ‘For our Elders’, is in celebration of the remarkable roles Elders have played in their communities and families and for their “tireless work and advocacy, fighting for constitutional recognition” (Indigenous Law Centre, UNSW).
They are the trailblazers, whose mettle and fortitude, led to the Uluru Statement and a summons for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. We should pay our respects and listen.
I acknowledge the IEU Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee and their work in this context. The committee reminded us at June Council that decades (56 years!) have passed since the last referendum to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in the Constitution.
Now is the time to give legitimacy to their collective Voice. In agreement with the committee, we are “not at risk of losing anything other than the opportunity of truly understanding [the nation] for the first time.” Well said. We’re listening.
We have it in us to make this historic change. In solidarity.