Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (BIPOC) members’ lives are rooted in intersectionality, neurodivergence and multi-cultural/multi-ethnic identities and abilities. The BIPOC Committee is committed to equity, inclusion, dignity, and social justice for everyone, and(much more crucially) to dismantling the systemic barriers and distinct silos that keep us divided. We welcome BIPOC members as well as allies of every gender, generation, philosophy and persuasion to be a a part of the change you expect to see. While our key initiatives will revolve around anti-racism, support for the amber alert for missing indigenous women and amplifying the voices of the disadvantaged, we are, above all, building a community of individuals with disparate lived experiences and point of views. To learn more about and from each other, have fun and explore shared goals together, email bipoc@usw1998.ca.
The Communications Committee acts as a resource to the Local by making recommendations and providing input on matters that affect communications tools such as website architecture, Steel Drum and the weekly newsletter. The committee also helps to identify improvements, gaps, needs and priorities of the membership.
The Local Health & Safety Committee is a standing Committee required under the USW Constitution. Members of the Committee discuss and participate in initiatives and campaigns to improve Health & Safety in the workplace We welcome all members regardless of experience in health and safety. The Committee meets approximately 6 times a year during the lunch hour or after work.
Our members reflect the diversity of Canada. We celebrate differences and believe that everyone is entitled to a workplace that is free from discrimination, regardless of race, religion, gender, age, status or sexual orientation. Our Human Rights Committee organizes speakers, events and supports campaigns related to human rights issues both in our workplaces and in the community.
Be involved. Be an influencer. Be a leader in your union. Do all of these things by joining the NextGen committee. This committee empowers members to step-up and become USW Local 1998’s leaders of tomorrow. NextGen members engage in: cutting-edge learning opportunities, collaborative projects, activism, in-person and online socializing and networking, and much more. No matter what your age, all members interested in getting more active are welcome. We especially encourage the participation of more experienced members who would like to pass on and share their knowledge to the Next Generation of USW Local 1998 activists and leaders. So what are you waiting for? Kick ass for the working-class with Next Gen today!
Politics is for everyone, and affects everyone. If you are curious and looking to inspire change and challenge the status quo, consider joining the PAC committee. If you feel passionate about bringing positive change into your community at work or at home please join the conversation. Without motivated individuals behind good ideas, change is unlikely to happen. This committee mobilizes members to take action on important issues which affect our workplace, our union rights and our communities. Committee activities can include encouraging members to sign petitions, write letters, attend rallies and demonstrations, and support other unions on the picket line.
The Steel Pride Committee works to foster equity in the workplace, at the bargaining table, and in our communities. We seek to create safe, educational, and fun spaces for LGBTQIA2S* folks and their allies. Steel Pride organizes events and supports campaigns related to LGBTQIA2S issues in our workplaces and in the wider community. The time commitment is very flexible and all USW 1998 members are welcome to join Steel Pride. *LGTBQIA2S stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and Two-Spirit.
The USW 1998 Women of Steel Committee is about empowering women to be active in our union and in the wider community. Through our activities, we aim to build solidarity and mutual respect for a stronger union. We organize events and campaigns such as wen-do self defence and assertiveness workshops, lunch time speaker series addressing issues that face women in our local, and donation drives for women’s shelters. Everyone is welcome, so sign up to be added to our email list so you can help us organize future activities. Email wos@usw1998.ca
The Communication Action Team (CAT) is a team of union members who want to bring attention to issues that affect our members, whether it’s distributing flyers or simply engaging colleagues in a meaningful conversation. CAT is particularly active during collective bargaining. There is no set time commitment, and no contribution is too small, so sign up now to see how you can help us help you.
Stewards are members who volunteer to be members’ point of contact with the union within the workplace. To become a steward, members require a free five-day training course with paid leave. If you would like to know more about the experience, contact your steward. If you are interested in becoming a steward, sign up for more information.