AUPE’S 48th ANNUAL CONVENTION
Convention 2025 is taking place October 23, 24, and 25. Over 1,000 members from across the province will come together at Edmonton’s Expo Centre to set our union’s direction for the next year.
Convention is the highest governing body of our union, an event for delegates to amend our constitution, pass our annual budget, and debate resolutions. Nothing compares to the democracy, solidarity, and fun members have at convention.
2025 is also an election year.
Convention delegates will elect AUPE’s next Executive, including our President, Executive Secretary-Treasurer, and six Vice-Presidents. This copy of Direct Impact includes candidate statements from members who registered in-advance to run for a position.
AUPE will publish election results and a convention update as part of the Direct Impact email newsletter.
Create a MyAUPE account on AUPE’s website to ensure you receive your union newsletter.
Visit aupe.org/user/register
POWER
AUPE EXECUTIVE
President Guy Smith
Executive Secretary-Treasurer Justin Huseby
Vice-President Sandra Azocar
Vice-President
Bobby-Joe Borodey
Vice-President James Gault
Vice-President Bonnie Gostola
Vice-President Darren Graham
Vice-President Curtis Jackson
Executive Director Carl Soderstrom
Managing Editor Nick Driedger
Editor Alexander Delorme Contributors
Tamara Aschenbrenner Kavi Chahal
Alexander Delorme
Terry Inigo-Jones
Maureen Mariampillai Jon Olsen Design Karen Painchaud Jeff Weber
Telephone: 1-800-232-7284
Fax: 780-930-3392
Toll-free Fax: 1-888-388-2873 info@aupe.org www.aupe.org
40065207
CONTENTS
04 05 06 08 12 16 17 25
Executive Election Candidate Statements
See candidate statements in the centre of Direct Impact. Get to know the members who want to represent you.
A Message to Members
Spotlight on Finance
from Executive Secretary-Treasurer Justin Huseby from AUPE President Guy Smith
By the Numbers
How every dues dollar supports you – and invests in our union’s future.
Strike a Plan
Preparing for the largest year of bargaining meant preparing for the largest year of potential strikes. AUPE members transformed their union in the process.
Labour History: How Protests Create Progress
What working Albertans faced, then and now, and why it was worth it.
Member Profile
Gina Abulencia, Surgical Processor
Local 054 Chapter 006, Royal Alexandra Hospital
The Rest of the Stories
Everything you need to know about the price of private seniors care, how you can party on the picket line, and more.
In Focus
Organizing for power is not always glamorous. It takes a lot of hard work and even more snacks!
Got a story idea? We want to know what AUPE members are up to. Send your suggestions to editor@aupe.org
A Message to Members from AUPE
President Guy Smith
Dear Fellow AUPE Members
What a year it has been! As the entire union has focussed on the massive rounds of bargaining that we have been engaged through 2024 and 2025 we need to take stock of the tremendous work being done by our Local leaders, activists, elected officers, and staff. But most importantly we must recognize that almost our entire 100,000 membership has been participating and involved like never before.
This has been no accident. In fact, the core of the Strategic Plan adopted by the Provincial Executive in late 2023 is focused on ensuring that members are directly engaged, active and supported in their collective bargaining. This is true whether their bargaining units are massive, such as the Government of Alberta and the two AHS bargaining units, or small, such as the Town of Coaldale which incidentally hit the picket lines in early September.
Strike preparations are in place and strike captain training is ongoing to ensure that if any group of members decide to hit the picket lines they will be well supported and assisted wherever and whenever it is needed.
Of course, not all rounds of bargaining will require strike votes and end in strikes.
In fact, it is always our goal to secure good collective agreements at the table through negotiations and/or mediation. We recently saw our membership in the Government of Alberta bargaining unit democratically decide, through a vote, to accept a new collective agreement, despite having delivered a very strong strike vote a few months prior. The point is these members were fully prepared to strike if they had rejected the deal, and AUPE was fully prepared to support what would have been a very large and complex strike.
With over 90 rounds of bargaining still ongoing it is very likely that we will need to put our operational resources, planning, and preparation to the test on picket lines somewhere, sometime.
And while the overwhelming focus of the union has been on bargaining, we must also pay close attention to the multiple challenges our members face every day. Constant chopping and changing by employers is not only frustrating to members, but it can also significantly affect their health and well-being. As you know all too well, there is an epidemic of stress on the frontlines due to employers restructuring their operations, short staffing, unsupportive bosses, low pay and other broader societal factors.
Whereas many of these issues can and should be addressed at the bargaining tables, it is important for members to recognize their collective worker power on an ongoing basis. Many AUPE worksites across the province have used that worker power to great effect through taking various forms of direct action. Whether it’s wearing the same colour clothing, onsite union meetings, information pickets and rallies or a “march on the boss” tactics such as these do make a difference and do improve working conditions and worker morale. Obviously, this takes some courage and a lot of organizing. AUPE has the staff and the tools to help you and your fellow workers. I encourage you to consider planning your own direct actions to help overcome challenges you are facing at your worksite and feel real Worker Power in action! <
In
Solidarity,
Guy Smith, AUPE President
Spotlight on Finance
from Executive Secretary-Treasurer Justin Huseby
Your Union, Your Strength, Your Future
Every gain that AUPE members have won at the bargaining table has been built on one truth: when AUPE members stand together, we are powerful. That power comes not only from our solidarity, but also from the resources we put behind it. The financial strength of your union is what ensures that every AUPE member has bargaining power when it matters most.
It takes more than courage to face an employer determined to hold the line on wages, claw back benefits, and erode job security. AUPE members need training, strike preparation, legal expertise, and the ability to mobilize quickly across the province. And all of that requires financial stability.
Your dues are not just a deduction on a paycheque. Rather, they are an investment in your power and AUPE’s mission to represent and support its members through solidarity and mobilization. Your dues back your member-led bargaining teams that fight for better contracts. They support the education programs that prepare members to lead. They work to protect and enhance your contract at the worksite. They keep you—the union— strong in the courts, in the legislature, and in our communities.
Most critically, your dues will help sustain our Defence Fund, which is the financial shield that protects members when they are forced to take job action. The Defence Fund is your guarantee that you will not stand alone when you must strike to defend your rights. Employers know AUPE is strike-ready because we have both the solidarity and the resources to back it up. Your Defence Fund is one of our most important tools for leverage at the bargaining table.
Over the past two decades, our membership has grown by nearly 30,000 people. That growth makes us stronger, but it also means greater demands on our resources: more contracts to negotiate, more workplaces to protect, and more members to mobilize. Growth does not automatically lower costs. Growth simultaneously increases members’ collective power and the work required to keep AUPE strong.
Inflation has taken a toll not just on your household budget, but also on our union’s ability to keep up with rising costs of bargaining, travel, and mobilizing. Financial stability is not just about the union’s books. It’s about making sure you have the support you need when you face your employer across the table.
Looking ahead, we must not leave AUPE members vulnerable to outside forces. We must strengthen your financial foundation so that members remain strong for decades to come. By committing to a sustainable financial plan, members’ rights, gains, wages, and futures are protected.
When we fight, we win. But winning requires the courage and collective resources. Keeping AUPE financially strong guarantees our solidarity will always be matched by the resources to defend it. <
In Solidarity, Justin Huseby, Executive Secretary-Treasurer
Where does my Dues Dollar go?
AUPE members are the driving force behind their union. We all work together, stand in solidarity together, and contribute to our union together. Our dues secure the resources we need to win in bargaining and defend our rights. Running a union of over 100,000 members may seem daunting, but we make it work because we all chip in a small amount to support the greater good.
Here is a look at how every dues dollar is used…by the numbers.
The question at Convention
Union Power is not only this year’s Convention theme, it is also what is at stake if we are unable to secure stable funding for our future.
AUPE Convention Delegates have debated resolutions on whether to increase dues for the past few years. Delegates will consider this question once again in 2025.
A modest dues increase would empower all AUPE members. We would secure the union’s financial situation and ensure all members have access to the support we need. Without it, we risk our power to support ourselves in bargaining, including the strike line. We risk our power to defend ourselves when we are treated unfairly at work. We risk our power to fight for the wages and benefits we deserve.
We are all faced with the same challenges. Everything is more expensive, and many employers do not want to pay us what we need to afford basic necessities. We cannot solve any of these issues individually. We must join together to secure our future. We can make that choice. We are the union.
The Dues Math
For decades, AUPE’s dues have been 1.25 per cent of an AUPE member’s basic salary. A dues increase of 0.25 per cent—bringing dues to 1.50 per cent—adds up to just a few dollars more per pay period for members. This small increase would give AUPE the financial stability to continue supporting, defending, and fighting for all of us.
Here is how this dues increase breaks down in real dollars and cents.
Orthopaedic Technician:
AHS North Zone NC
$35.70 hr (start rate, 2023) Bi-weekly: $2,766.75
How Dues Help
Field Technician I: AGLC
$25.78 hr (start rate, 2023) Bi-weekly: $1,868.80
Defence Fund: The Defence Fund is fundamental to our ability to fight for the wages and benefits we deserve. This fund provides pay and benefits for members during strikes and lockouts. This gives us the power to stay strong, hold the line, and win.
The Defence Fund is currently healthy, but more investment is needed for it to properly support all 100,000 AUPE members when we turn up the heat in bargaining.
The Bargaining Table: Fewer resources mean less effective negotiating teams. Our negotiating teams fight for better wages and working conditions for all members. We cannot risk losing ground at the bargaining table, which would result in weaker contracts, lower raises, and less leverage in future negotiations.
Custodian: Living Waters Catholic Separate School Division $18.09 (start rate, 2024) Bi-weekly: $1,447.20
Labour Relations: AUPE’s Labour Relations team works hard to defend members who are mistreated at work. Without more investment, AUPE’s ability to defend members’ rights, resolve workplace issues, and file grievances would suffer.
Member Access: AUPE members live everywhere in Alberta, so AUPE has several regional offices to serve members across the province. But maintaining offices is expensive. Without a dues increase, there is a real risk some regional offices could close—meaning less access for members.
Member Benefits Fund: The Member Benefits Fund provides assistance to AUPE members facing severe hardship. Members facing extraordinary financial crisis can apply for funding.
Psychologist II: Local 006 – Social Services
$47.85 (start rate, 2023) Bi-weekly: $3,468.89
The Member Benefits Fund faces an uncertain future without a dues increase. With weather-related events like floods and fires becoming more frequent, the fund could be quickly drained. If so, members in crisis will have fewer or no options for union support.
“Everyone took Strike Captain and Track it Forward training...”
STRIKE A
“The Provincial Executive’s strategic plan focused on bargaining and gave us a lot of the methods and tactics that got us here,” he says.
“That was our roadmap telling us where our focus and energy had to be.”
Preparing for the largest year of bargaining meant preparing for the largest year of potential strikes. AUPE members transformed their union in the process.
“If you’re scared of doing something, that’s fine,” says Huseby. “Just do it scared.”
PLAN
“Whenever you turned around, there was another key project that needed a plan.”
It was a cold, overcast October morning, and Justin Huseby was walking through the front doors of AUPE Headquarters as if for the first time.
AUPE’s 46th annual Convention ended two days earlier. Huseby had been elected Executive Secretary-Treasurer and he, alongside his fellow Executive members and Convention delegates, knew a huge task lay before them. Nearly every AUPE member would begin bargaining for a new collective agreement in the new year, and it would take a collective effort to prepare for it.
Huseby went up the elevator, got off on the third floor, and walked straight to the union’s Finance department. It was only his second day on the job, but he did not want to take things slow.
He asked: “How many paper cheques can we print in a day?”
AUPE resource staff took this request seriously. They went through a test-run to see what was possible if a large bargaining unit went on strike.
Huseby says the result scared him: 400. AUPE was prepared to print approximately 400 strike pay cheques per day.
By Alexander Delorme, Communications Staff
That was not much of a problem in the past. However, all AUPE members now had the legal right to strike thanks to new essential services legislation, and the largest round of bargaining ever was waiting for us in 2024. There was a real possibility that tens of thousands of members could be on the picket lines at the same time.
“If you’re scared of doing something, that’s fine,” says Huseby. “Just do it scared.” Strike preparations began then and there.
The early stages
AUPE needed to pivot. Work immediately began to equip the union with modern strike infrastructure and tactics that could support tens of thousands of members going on strike at once.
Huseby’s project management team, consisting of some of the union’s most experienced staff, was assembled not long after the December holiday.
More staff were hired to strengthen the Organizing department, specifically, as well as to ensure members had access to
the services they rely on, such as assistance from Membership Services Officers. A full staffing compliment was critical, especially if some staff had to be redeployed to picket lines across the province.
The main project management team mapped out everything we needed to prepare for. New ideas and challenges popped up each day. Everything had contingencies built-in from the start—backup plans for backup plans.
Members likely noticed the huge shift when the union renewed its focus on MyAUPE accounts. Creating an account on AUPE’s website was always beneficial, but now it
was also the way members would vote on a contract or to strike, find their picket line, and receive strike pay. Ensuring every member signs up is one project that will never end.
According to Huseby, the whole operation got off the ground quickly thanks to the work AUPE’s Provincial Executive invested into recent strategic plans.
“The Provincial Executive’s strategic plan focused on bargaining and gave us a lot of the methods and tactics that got us here,” he says. “That was our roadmap telling us where our focus and energy had to be.”
The DNA of our union has changed. It will never be the same. I just don’t see us ever capitulating to zeroes and ones again.
Justin Huesby Executive Secretary-Treasurer
Getting ready
“Do you think you are worth more than 7.5 per cent over four years?”
That is the question AUPE members asked themselves during the 2024 Time for Action Town Halls. Thousands of members attended these town halls for critical conversations about bargaining, about what members deserved and were willing to fight for.
“This is when it became real for everybody,” says Huseby. “It was clear that members relied on their union, but also that the members themselves are the union. They were going to have to support each other in ways they maybe had not done before.”
Thousands across the province at town halls is one thing, but thousands and thousands across the province on picket lines is another. What happens when the largest groups of AUPE members go on strike and need a record of their picket line attendance to receive strike pay? A logistical nightmare, that’s what.
Huseby’s team tested several solutions. They eventually landed on a program called Track it Forward, software that is most often used by organizations to check-in volunteers at an event. For us, we set it up so that members could sign in and out of their picket line.
Members also identified the need for a more urgent Picket Captain Training course. Thus, Strike Captain Training was born.
Picket Captain Training is offered every year for members through AUPE’s Education department. The course introduces the dos and don’ts of being on a picket line, but is also full of conceptual information, like how strikes can be a powerful tool when negotiations break down and why the labour movement has always fought for our right to strike.
Strike Captain Training takes a more practical, here-and-now approach. It sounds straightforward, but creating a new course took a lot of work and a lot of planning.
“Everyone took Strike Captain and Track it Forward training,” says Huseby. “Even if you were a member who wouldn’t be a captain, or a staff member who wouldn’t need to go to a picket line, we felt it was important that we were all on the same page, that we all knew what could happen and why, as well as how to respond to all possible outcomes.”
AUPE Headquarters itself transformed when bargaining with the government reached the boiling point. Several large boardrooms were blocked off and fitted as call centres. The Member Resource Centre would operate normally, but a large strike would also need its own call centre to connect with strike captains, as well as a dedicated hotline to answer questions about the Essential Services Agreement, which can be extremely complicated.
“Everything had its own project management plan,” says Huseby. “The strike captain course had a plan. Track it Forward had a plan.
Timely updates to our records had a plan. Accounting and reconciling strike pay had a plan. Responding to members’ calls and questions had a plan. Whenever you turned around, there was another key project that needed a plan.”
Moving forward
Over 300 strike kits were assembled when it looked like Government of Alberta members could go on strike. Although members eventually ratified that deal based on a mediator’s recommendations, those kits did not go to waste.
Strike kits are ready and waiting for other large groups of members to reach the same critical stage in bargaining, including those working in AHS Nursing Care and General Support Services. A handful of kits even made it to Coaldale when the Town locked out its staff this September.
Regardless of whether AUPE members choose to go on strike, the importance of the project-management approach that led us to this point—which all began on a crisp October morning in 2023—cannot be overstated.
Not only are AUPE members prepared for the next round of bargaining and potential job action, their entire union has been transformed in the process.
“The DNA of our union has changed,” says Huseby. “It will never be the same. I just don’t see us ever capitulating to zeroes and ones again.” <
How PROTESTS create PROGRESS
What working Albertans faced, then and now, and why it was worth it.
By Tamara Aschenbrenner, Communications Staff
When workers take to the picket line, we don’t measure the cost in lost wages alone. It’s in the bitter wind on your cheeks as you march outside. It’s in the headlines that question your motives and worth. It’s in the uneasy conversations with neighbours who don’t understand why you’re out there.
And yet, again and again, Alberta workers have stood together, paid the price, and changed their workplaces for the better.
“The sacrifices are real, but so are the gains we make when we hold the line together,” says AUPE Vice-President Bonnie Gostola. “Every victory we’ve won was built on the courage of those willing to take action.”
A history of courage
Some of Alberta’s fiercest labour battles are notable not necessarily for what they won at the bargaining table, but for the sacrifices that came with them.
The 1986 Gainers’ strike pitted meatpacking workers against a company bent on slashing wages and pensions. Busloads of replacement workers, under police escort, clashed with strikers. The price came in bruises, arrests, and long months of picketing. In the end, they made only small changes, but the memory remains a rallying cry for Alberta’s labour movement.
In 2005, 400 Calgary casino workers staged Alberta’s first strike in the gaming sector. Angry gamblers harassed them on the picket line, sometimes violently, but the workers refused to fold. They secured a fair contract that set new standards in an industry that is hostile to unions.
“These are the stories we inherit,” says Gostola. “They remind us that, no matter the decade, the challenges are the same. Employers undervalue us, governments want us quiet, and still we stand up.”
The high price of defiance
In 1988, more than 14,000 members of the United Nurses of Alberta (UNA) walked out over wage rollbacks, despite not having the legal right to strike. The courts punished them severely. UNA faced criminal contempt charges and massive fines, and individual nurses faced civil charges and threats of termination. Yet their courage redefined expectations for nurses’ roles in shaping healthcare.
A few years later, in 1995, CUPE laundry workers—most of them immigrant women of colour—took a stand against privatization. They were among the lowest-paid workers in healthcare and risked everything by walking out. Thousands of other hospital staff joined them in solidarity. The government, facing a wall of resistance, backed down. This victory slowed privatization and gave voice to workers the province rarely listened to.
The ripple effect
In 2002, more than 20,000 members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) walked off the job. They demanded smaller classes, more resources, and fair wages. The government fought back with court orders and media campaigns branding teachers as “abandoning” students. They forced the ATA back to work and fined them. Still, teachers won pay increases and commitments on class sizes. These concessions benefited classrooms long after the strike ended. A decade later,correctional officers at the new Edmonton Remand Centre faced their own breaking point. With management ignoring their safety concerns, AUPE members staged a wildcat strike in 2013. The action spread quickly. Eight other jails and courthouse sheriffs joined, threatening to derail Alberta’s justice system. Courts fined AUPE heavily, but the government promised not to punish individual workers. More importantly, it forced negotiations into binding arbitration, which delivered real safety improvements.
Cold winds, long fights
Strikes are never easy, but some test endurance to the limit.
From November 2024 to March 2025, CUPE education support workers waged the largest strike in the union’s history. What began as local job actions grew into a province-wide movement. Workers faced government smear campaigns, scabs brought in to undermine them, colleagues crossing the line, angry parents, and picketing shifts in minus 30°C weather. And yet, the strike showed how important support staff are to Alberta’s schools and CUPE emerged more unified.
Back in 1997, UFCW Local 401 members at Alberta Safeway stores hit the bricks for more than two months. It was a grueling stand-off, with corporate threats, media campaigns against the workers, and winter setting in. But the strike ended with raises, job security protections, and precedence for future negotiations.
The costs we carry
Strikes carry obvious costs: missed paycheques or reliance on strike pay, sometimes for weeks or months. Families juggle bills, rent, and groceries without certainty of what comes next.
There’s also the cost of perception. Employers pour money into PR campaigns painting workers as greedy and unreasonable. Members of the public sometimes lash out at picketers who block their way or disrupt daily routines.
There’s even the risk of physical danger. From Gainers in the ‘80s to casino picket lines in the 2000s, violence often lurks on the edges of labour disputes. And there’s the emotional toll: the uncertainty of not knowing how long the fight will last, or what the workplace will feel like when it’s over.
But the alternative—the price of silence— can be greater. Wages stand still. Benefits erode. Workloads grow until safety slips.
“We’ve all seen what happens when we let employers or governments chip away at our rights,” says Gostola.
Social services members of AUPE Local 006 confront Minister Mike Cardinal about plans to privatize child welfare services during their 22-day strike in May 1990.
“You lose ground so slowly you barely notice it. Then suddenly you can’t pay your bills, you’re short-staffed every shift, and you’re working injured because there’s no one to cover you.”
Why we keep fighting
Job action is never the first choice. It comes only after we’ve exhausted bargaining, mediation, and reason. But when we stay strong, it works. Teachers forced investment in classrooms. Nurses made their voices impossible to ignore. Casino workers carved out space for unions in a new industry. Remand officers made safety non-negotiable. Education support staff stood together through a prairie winter and came out stronger.
“Every fight we win sends a message,” says Gostola. “It tells employers that we know our worth and that we’re willing to defend it. We make progress not by waiting politely, but by standing together.”
Workers before us stood in snowstorms, under threat of fines, and in the face of powerful employers. And they won. They remembered the courage of those who came before, knew they were part of something bigger, and paid the price.
Because protest isn’t just about today’s contract. It’s about the future we’re building, one picket line at a time. <
Vice-President
Every victory we’ve won was built on the courage of those willing to take action.
Concerned Calgarians join the picket as support for the laundry workers’ strike snowballs.
Bonnie GOSTOLA
Gina Abulencia
Surgical Processor
Local 054 Chapter 006
How important is AUPE to Gina Abulencia?
In her words, the union brought her back from the edge.
Abulencia is a Surgical Processor at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton. She and her colleagues are responsible for assembling and sterilizing a managerie of instruments, equipment, and supplies.
Without their work, surgeries and several other procedures simply would not happen. Medical Device Reprocessing Departments must be up and running 24/7, 365 days per year.
“We are behind the scenes. Nobody really knows us,” says Abulencia. “But I like serving our patients and helping my coworkers. We are all working together to build a better society.”
Thousands of General Support Services members like Abulencia work ‘behind the scenes’ in our hospitals, but there is a growing movement to show Albertans just how important they are to our health care system.
Abulencia loves her job. However, her employer made work unbearable following her breast cancer diagnosis, including trying to push her out.
“I felt so alone because I didn’t really know the union before,” she says. “When I was fighting for my job, when I was fighting cancer, I was pushed to the edge. They said ‘Maybe this job is not for you.’ I was losing hope, but the union stood up for me.”
The issues at work were resolved thanks to help from Abulencia’s Membership Services Officer and several conversations with upper management. Now happy and healthy, she says the experience inspired her to get more involved with AUPE.
“The union fought for my job. I was able to go back to work and it was different from that time on,” says Abulencia. “I thought: ‘Yeah, I’m going to give back to the union. I want to help out my other members and spread the word.’
“We have got to stand up. We have got to work together. Because the union does a lot for us.” <
By Alexander Delorme, Communications Staff
UNION POWER LIGHTS UP CONVENTION
AUPE’s 48th Annual Convention begins Oct. 23, 2025. Over 1,000 Delegates will gather to decide our future and elect a new Executive Committee.
Delegates representing every Local will meet in October to debate, vote, and chart AUPE’s direction for the coming year.
This year’s Convention theme, Union Power, was inspired by AUPE members’ resilience, determination, and solidarity over the past 18 months of bargaining. This is the Union Power that lit up town halls, rallies, and bargaining tables across the province for the last year and a half, and now it is coming to Convention.
“The Convention Floor always has a certain energy—it crackles with excitement and purpose,” says AUPE Vice-President James Gault. “But this year, I think the Convention Floor will be absolutely electric. Delegates will come to Convention with renewed determination and a confidence that is built by fighting side-by-side for something they believe in.”
Convention 2025 will be a busy time for Delegates. There is a full slate of resolutions on the agenda, as well as the Executive Officer elections scheduled for Friday, Oct. 24.
Democracy in Action
AUPE Executive Officer elections take place bi-annually on odd-numbered years. Delegates will vote to elect a President, an Executive Secretary-Treasurer, and six Vice-Presidents.
“One of a Delegate’s most important duties is voting in AUPE’s Executive Officer elections,” says Gault.
“Participating in our democracy is something that Delegates take very seriously. Every Convention is important, but Delegates know that the stakes are just that much higher in an election year. They know their vote can change the course of the union.”
AUPE hosts a candidates forum as part of the election process. Often referred to as the ‘bear pit,’ the forum is a chance for candidates to speak directly to Delegates about their vision for the union. Candidates present their platform to Delegates before the format switches to a question-and-answer period.
Celebrating Union Activism
Convention, at its heart, is where union activists celebrate our accomplishments and plot the course for the future. AUPE also bestows Life Memberships to members who have shown outstanding dedication to AUPE through their activism and commitment to workers’ rights. Life Membership is considered the highest honour AUPE can bestow upon a member.
“Life Members are those who have dedicated themselves to making life better for their fellow members,” says Gault. “Nominators used words such as ‘deeply involved;’ ‘fierce defender,’ ‘unwavering commitment,’ and ‘constant presence’ when describing these activists. Congratulations and thank you to all our new Life Members!”
Every Convention is important, but Delegates know that the stakes are just that much higher in an election year. They know their vote can change the course of the union.
The 2025 Life Members honourees are: Mike Dempsey (Local 012), Judy Fader (Local 043), Jason Heistad (Local 071), Glen Scott - In Memoriam (Local 045), Susan Slade (Local 045), Marrianne Van Elst (Local 046), and Shauna Warrilow (Local 046).
Life Memberships will be awarded on Oct. 24. <
James GAULT Vice-President
AUPE members will gather in Edmonton on October 23, 24, and 25 for the 48th Annual AUPE Convention. This year’s Convention theme is Union Power.
2025 is an election year, and Delegates representing each AUPE Local will vote to elect our union’s eight-member Executive Committee. Those positions include:
President
Executive Secretary-Treasurer Vice-Presidents (6)
Direct Impact publishes platform statements from candidates in election years. Only elected Convention Delegates vote in AUPE’s Executive Officer elections.
EXECUTIVE OFFICER ELECTION CANDIDATE STATEMENTS
Sandra Azocar
Local 006 • Edmonton
Fellow Union Members,
My name is Sandra Azocar, and I am running to be your next AUPE President.
I started working for the Government of Alberta in 1987, and ever since, I have been an active and proud member of our union—serving at the chapter, local, and executive levels, and chairing standing committees. In 1990, during the 22-day social worker strike for justice, I served as a strike captain. Since then, I’ve walked picket lines across this province, mobilized members in all four sectors, and stood shoulder to shoulder with you in our fights.
For me, labour values are not just words. Fairness, equity, and justice are the foundation of everything I do. I don’t just talk about the labour movement—I have lived it. I’ve seen victories, setbacks, and the sacrifices of those who came before us. Those lessons, learned through decades of organizing provincially, nationally, and internationally, have shaped my vision for the future of our union.
But here is the truth: we are the largest and strongest union in Western Canada— and yet too often, we do not use our strength. We have been reactive when we need to be proactive. We have let others define us when we should be shaping the narrative ourselves. That must change.
If elected as your President, I will fight for a stronger, more engaged, and more effective AUPE by committing to:
• Open and transparent negotiations—where you and your coworkers are a part of the process- a necessary step to win better contracts and break through wage stagnation.
• A stronger public voice—100,000 members who see themselves reflected in the media, speaking out, and shaping the conversation instead of letting others speak for us.
• Action driven advocacy—not just for our members, but for the public services that make our communities stronger and fairer.
• Big-picture leadership—because legislation and policy decisions affect our jobs, our families, and our future. We need leadership that is proactive in opposing bad laws and proposing better ones, working with members to flex our collective strength.
If we continue as we are, our strength remains untapped, and our voices unheard. But if we act together, we can transform AUPE into a union that doesn’t just claim to be the strongest in Western Canada—but proves it every single day.
I have travelled across Alberta, meeting members where they live and work, listening to your struggles, and fighting for solutions. I bring experience, advocacy skills, and the social capital needed to build strong collaborations. Most importantly, I bring a vision: a proactive, transparent, and member-driven union that never backs down.
Fellow members, in this election you have a choice: do we stay reactive, or do we rise together as the strong, united voice that Alberta workers and families need?
I ask for your support to be the kind of leader who not only talks the talk but walks it with integrity, courage, and solidarity.
Join me. Let’s move forward together.
In solidarity,
Sandra Azocar
Sandraazocar.com
Bonnie Gostola
Local 045 • High River
Fellow Workers and Friends in AUPE
For over 35+ years in AUPE, I have had the honour of serving as a council representative, a union steward, several chapter officer positions, as a Local Chair and for the past nine years as your Vice President. Every one of these roles has prepared me to take on the role of President. I bring my experience, education, and skills to this office putting member’s needs first. I am often called to speak for those who cannot or will not speak to defend their rights. I proudly do so, but I always remind; being a member is not about sitting on the sidelines. I stress the importance of working with individual members to find their power and their strength to fight for themselves. I have never wavered from my goal to build participation in AUPE by turning spectators into activists.
As your President I will continue listen to your direction, congratulate every victory, rise to challenges, and overcome obstacles. I have built my leadership on integrity, teamwork, accountability, availability, mentorship, and especially advocacy. My actions, not words, govern how I lead. I will not stop being who I am. I encourage transparent and productive conversations intending to lead to understanding. I will continue to be a member, committed to the wellbeing of AUPE. I am also committed to the development of a variety of resources, empowering the voice of members who fight for our rights.
Members are my focus! My primary purpose is to empower and inspire you, while leading this union to achieve success in bargaining and labour battles. I have promoted this narrative every day, as your Vice President. I am running to contribute, advocate, activate, and mentor AUPE members for another two years. Each of you,100,000 + strong members, contribute in your own way, and my role is to provide resources, both material and human, to assist you. Our strength lies, not in one person, but in building on our combined experience. Leaders and activists are protectors, defenders, and enforcers of our rights, representing colleagues at council meetings, Conventions or taking on an employer or governments! Those individuals must have the tools to fight for the members. Every member is the union contributing where they can.
I work with members, no matter how involved they are in this union. As your President I will continue to be dedicated to that practice. Members should never wonder what this union does for them.
I am your asset on the Executive Team. My skills and a level-headed approach to leadership is a strength in the Executive committee. I have been a part of that team for nine years and know the direction this union needs to go, and to grow awareness in the general membership. Together we can continue to build strong, active participation in this union, building activists out of spectators.
I Stand with You! We stand together!
Always in Solidarity, Bonnie Gostola
Facebook: Gostola for AUPE President
Guy Smith Local 006 • Edmonton
Re-Elect Guy Smith – Experienced, Strong, Passionate Leadership
Fellow AUPE members, I want to thank all of you for your ongoing strength, resolve, support and solidarity throughout some of the most difficult times our union has faced in decades.
I’ve experienced a lot in my over 35 years of AUPE activism and leadership, and without question, the challenges that lay before us now are momentous.
But with these challenges comes opportunities that, with your continued support, we can grab hold of, together.
That’s why I’m proud to put my name forward once again to serve as AUPE President, a position I’ve been honoured to serve in since 2009.
Over the last few years, we have engaged in the greatest mobilization and strike preparation in AUPE history. That work persists as our struggles continue; and I commit to seeing it through to the end as your President.
Through my years of experience, I know what it means to be your President. It means being steadfast and strong in the face of adversity. It means being calm and confident during turmoil. It means being empathetic and compassionate in times of stress and uncertainty. It means being strategic and creative in the face of complexity and confusion. It means being inspiring and motivating when confronted by challenges. It means being the leader you deserve.
When I was first elected President, I made it our mission to build a strong, member-driven union that could weather any storm. That commitment has never wavered and in my time as your President, we have faced hard times, but we’ve also had many significant wins.
And through it all, AUPE has remained united, respected and effective because we have a membership that’s engaged and mobilized. This strength and solidarity is needed now more than ever. So is effective and experienced leadership.
I’ve served as a steward and activist, a Vice-President for eight years and as your President for 16 years. Through it all, my passion for our union and its members has only grown stronger.
But stability is just as important as experience. In a volatile climate, AUPE needs steady leadership that can navigate uncertainty without losing focus. As your President, we have kept our union moving forward, strategically persistent and internally united. We have grown our capacity, expanded our horizons and strengthened the infrastructure that keeps AUPE operating effectively.
And as much as we have prepared ourselves for what we currently face, we must also look ahead and work tirelessly to secure a strong, stable future for our union. The challenges will never go away, and neither will our resolve and determination to continue to be the largest, most diverse and most active union in western Canada.
Fellow AUPE members, I am proud to stand with you through the toughest fights, and biggest wins. I remain committed to leading us through these current struggles and those that are ahead with a proven record of experience, confidence, activism and passion.
In Strength and Solidarity
Guy
CANDIDATE FOR
Justin Huseby
Local 052 • Calgary
Greetings Fellow AUPE Members!
My name is Justin Huseby, and I’m honoured to put my name forward again to serve you as your Executive Secretary-Treasurer.
Over the past 22 years, I’ve served AUPE in a range of leadership roles. Throughout that time, I’ve remained committed to building a stronger, more transparent, and results-driven union that puts the interests of members first.
As your current EST, I’ve focused on strengthening the resources, systems, and structures that help our mission of representing and supporting members through solidarity and mobilization. I believe in the collective power of AUPE members, working to ensure that your power is strengthens with enhanced operational supports.
A major focus in 2025 was leading the development and implementation of AUPE’s strike infrastructure and readiness plans. With strong internal teams in place, we’ve developed responsive, coordinated, and resourced operational supports that are on standby for any bargaining unit that is ready to strike.
I’ve also led important work to modernize AUPE’s governance, including a comprehensive overhaul of many of our financial policies and procedures. These updates reflect ‘best practices’ in accountability, fairness, and consistency. But this wasn’t just rewriting policy; it was about building more efficient, transparent, and equitable decision-making frameworks (and every AUPE member has full access to policies through their MyAUPE account).
Financial transparency has been another top priority. I’ve introduced new tools and approaches to help members better understand their union’s finances including clear answers to member questions, more visual financial information, “Finance FAQ” documents, Q&A sessions, and targeted financial training for Local and PE leaders. My goal is to continue maintain your confidence and trust in how AUPE’s finances are managed.
Supporting members also means making sure the spaces we use are accessible and functional. That’s why I initiated space and IT improvements to member meeting and training spaces across all nine AUPE offices. These changes will help create welcoming, effective environments for members to gather, learn, and organize.
I’ve also worked to continue to improve how our Convention functions. Convention is the heart of our union’s democratic process, and I’ve led efforts to streamline registration, improve coordinator training, and implemented a new approach to electronic voting. Each Convention builds on the last and I remain committed to making them more inclusive, efficient, and empowering.
This term, I had the privilege of coordinating our first, large scale electronic strike vote. I must say, I continue to feel humbled by the collective strength of our membership. I am in awe of our members coming together to support one another and it inspires me to continue the work I do for you, our union. Throughout all this work, I’ve stayed focused on the core duties of the Executive Secretary-Treasurer, your ‘Chief Financial Officer,’ by ensuring financial integrity, operational excellence, and transparency. If re-elected, I’ll continue to build on the progress we’ve made with stabilizing AUPE’s finances, strengthening our operations, and ensuring we’re always ready to defend our rights and achieve our goals.
In solidarity!
Justin Huseby
Harpreet Parhar
Local 095 • Calgary
My Name is Harpreet Parhar
With your support, I’m running for Executive Secretary-Treasurer (EST) to bring a stronger future to our union.
For the past 17 years, I’ve proudly served as an AUPE member in good standing. I currently hold the role of Treasurer for Local 95, and today, I’m asking for your support as I take the next step—running to be your next Executive SecretaryTreasurer (EST).
Why am I running? Because our union must do better—not just for a few, but for all of us.
We face rising costs of living, heavier workloads, and growing uncertainty. Meanwhile, AUPE leadership has remained quiet, neutral, and comfortable with the status quo. That needs to change. We need bold, transparent leadership that puts members first and acts with urgency—not after the damage is done.
AUPE has the numbers, structure, and strength to be a leading force—not only at the bargaining table, but in protecting our rights and improving our lives. Yet time and again, we’ve seen opportunities lost due to inaction and a lack of meaningful communication. I’m stepping up to change that.
As Treasurer of Local 95, I’ve worked hard to ensure our finances are transparent, responsible, and focused on directly benefiting our members. I’ve listened to members across our union who feel unheard, unsupported, and left behind by a system that no longer serves them. I hear you—and I’m ready to act.
Here’s what I will fight for as your EST:
✅ Clear, Honest Communication
We need to rebuild trust through transparency. Members should hear from leadership year-round—not just during bargaining or elections. We deserve real updates, real dialogue, and real accountability.
✅ Rebuilding Member Engagement
When members feel ignored, they disengage. I want to change that. By creating space for more voices—especially newer and younger members—we can renew participation and strengthen our union from the ground up.
✅ Stronger, Proactive Advocacy
We can’t wait for problems to get worse before responding. We need leadership that takes a stand, challenges employers, and pushes back on policies that hurt our members.
✅ Financial Accountability
Every dollar must be used wisely. As a Treasurer, I’ve challenged wasteful spending and prioritized member support. I’ll bring that same commitment to the provincial level.
✅ Focus on Front-Line Challenges
Our union must stay rooted in the day-to-day experiences of our front-line workers—the backbone of AUPE. You deserve leadership that knows your challenges and puts your needs at the center.
I never expected to be a union steward, chapter chair, or treasurer—but I stepped up when the need was there. Today, I see an even greater need, and I’m stepping up again—to serve you.
I’m not here to uphold the status quo. I’m here to lead with integrity, to listen, and to deliver real results. No empty promises—just action, honesty, and commitment.
AUPE must evolve, and with your support, I’m ready to lead that change.
Let’s move forward—together.
In Solidarity, Harpreet Parhar
AUPE Siblings,
Bobby-Joe Borodey
Local 071 • Red Deer
My name is Bobby-Joe Borodey, and I am asking for your support in my re-election as an AUPE Vice-President.
Since 2019, I’ve had the honour of serving you as a Vice-President, and in that time, I’ve learned so much from our members. Every conversation, story, and struggle shared with me has deepened my understanding of what solidarity truly means. Our strength has never been about one person—it comes from you, the members, who show up every day to do the work that supports all Albertans, including the most vulnerable, and keeps our communities strong. My role is to stand with you, carry your voices into every room I enter, and ensure your challenges and victories are never overlooked. This is not just a responsibility—it’s a privilege I would be proud to continue.
What guides me as a leader is simple: people first. Our union is strongest when every member feels included, valued, and empowered—and my work as a Vice-President is to make sure your concerns are not just heard, but acted upon. Leadership also means creating space for others to thrive: mentoring new activists, encouraging participation, and breaking down barriers to engagement. Time and again, I’ve seen the power that comes when every voice is part of the conversation, and I am committed to supporting current activists and developing the next generation of AUPE leaders who are already among us.
Strong union leadership requires integrity and accountability, courage and advocacy, a commitment to collaboration, and the ability to act with vision— qualities I possess and demonstrate every day as one of your Vice-Presidents. Members place their trust in me, and I honour that trust through transparency and accountability in every decision. Leadership also means having the courage to speak up and advocate fiercely for members, even when it is difficult or unpopular, because our voices must always be heard at the tables of power. Collaboration is equally important, because real strength comes when we work together, share ideas, and lift one another up. And while we fight for improvements today, we must also keep an eye on tomorrow—leading with vision, anticipating challenges, and creating strategies that keep AUPE and the broader labour movement strong, resilient, and ready for the future is imperative. By bringing these qualities and a commitment to making a real impact, I hope to continue serving you as a Vice-President.
Elections are about more than choosing candidates—they are about shaping the future of our union. I encourage every member to engage fully: ask questions, have conversations with candidates, share your perspectives, and make your voice count. Your participation ensures our leadership reflects the needs, values, and priorities of all members. Together, standing united and informed, we will continue to strengthen AUPE, protect our rights, and advance the goals that matter most to the people who make this union what it is.
I respectfully ask for your support in re-electing me as an AUPE Vice-President.
In solidarity, Bobby-Joe
Borodey
Nancy Burton Local 045 • Cochrane
Greetings Fellow Workers. My name is Nancy Burton, proud member of AUPE Local 045/06. I am honoured to put my name forward for consideration for one the positions of Vice President of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE).
I am deeply committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of our members. With a strong background in workplace advocacy and a passion for social justice, I believe I am uniquely qualified to represent and lead our union in these challenging times.
First and foremost, I am driven by a desire to ensure that every member of AUPE has a voice. Our union is built on the principles of solidarity and collective action; I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all members feel heard and valued. I have a proven track record of effective communication and collaboration, which I believe are essential qualities for a Vice President. By actively listening to the concerns of our members and working together to find solutions, I am confident that we can achieve meaningful progress.
In addition to my commitment to inclusiveness, I bring a wealth of experience in workplace advocacy to the table. Over the past decade, I have served in various roles within AUPE, including as a shop steward and a member of the bargaining committee. I’ve further had the extreme privilege to be elected in worksite and Local leadership positions These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the challenges our members face, as well as the strategies that are most effective in addressing them. As Vice President, I will continue to leverage this experience to advocate for fair and equitable treatment for all.
One of my key priorities as Vice President will be to strengthen our union’s ability to respond to the evolving needs of our members. The landscape of workplace advocacy is constantly changing, and it is crucial that we remain adaptable and proactive. I am committed to investing in training and development opportunities for our members, so that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their roles.
Another important aspect of my platform is a continued focus on kindness and compassion. We provide valuable services to Albertans. We do so with kindness, compassion and· professionalism. We sadly are not always kind, compassionate or empathetic with each other. Our strength as organization is each other.
In conclusion, I am running for Vice President of AUPE because I am passionate about advocating for our members and ensuring that their voices are heard. With my experience in workplace advocacy, commitment to inclusivity, and dedication to social justice, I believe I am well-equipped to lead our union into the future. I am excited about the opportunity to serve as one of Vice President and to work together to achieve our shared goals.
Thank you for your support.
Nancy Burton
CANDIDATE
Randy Butler
Local 071 • Sylvan Lake
Hi! My name is Randy Butler, and I am asking you to trust me with your vote for AUPE Vice President. I am a community builder, a communicator, an activist, a project manager, and a loving husband and father to four children – three who are out on their own in the workforce, and one who is about to begin Kindergarten. Yes, I know, I am never going to be able to retire. Ha ha ha.
I have been an AUPE member for approximately 10 years, having worked at two different Chapters in Local 071 – Olds College, and Red Deer Polytechnic. In those 10 years, I have served in a variety of positions, including my current roles as Local Chair and Human Rights Committee member, and past roles, including Local Treasurer, chairing numerous ad hoc committees, and a member of Provincial Executive. I am also undergoing the process of becoming a Union Steward.
I am running for Vice President, because I believe in creating a strong AUPE with a focus on solidarity, member engagement, and fiscal responsibility. I have built my career based on doing work that helps others. The work I do now helps to create a modern, innovative, more affordable learning experience for post-secondary students, and the work that I will do as AUPE Vice President has similar goals – helping all of our AUPE members through open, honest communication through all levels of AUPE, increasing member engagement at the worksite, and empowering members, so they do not have to spend their working lives in fear of unjust decisions by management and the government.
I am also running for this position because the Albertan worker – especially the public sector worker - is under attack. We are under attack from our employers, from our provincial government, and even from those community members who do not realize or care about the pay cuts, wage freezes and job terminations that the public sector has faced over the last two decades. Together, we can show that we are strong, we are united, we are essential, and we deserve better.
Most importantly, I know what the role of Vice President entails – countless days and nights on the road, working in any region assigned to me, worksite visits, chairing meetings, offering advice to members, leading picket lines, and empowering and collaborating with other members. These are all areas in which I thrive and have a proven track record.
I look forward to hearing from you throughout this campaign period. I am always open to talk about my goals and my thoughts on the direction of AUPE, and how we can all work together to make things better for all of us. You can learn more about me and see my full platform at VoteRandyButler. com. I would also like to invite you to email me with any questions or concerns at VoteRandyButler@gmail.com and join my Facebook group - https://www. facebook.com/groups/randyforaupevicepresident.
At Convention 2025, a vote for me is a vote to Move Forward, Together, in Solidarity.
Greetings Union Members:
I’ve dedicated my life to this work; it’s no exaggeration that I’ve grown with this union. For the past 24 years, I’ve proudly been an AUPE member, working at Children and Family Services. I’ve worn many hats: a union steward since 2008, Local Chairwoman of seven years, and participant in more meetings than most consider “fun.” This year, I stepped back to let others lead—you know, so I could finally catch up on much-needed sleep after years of late-night strategizing!
Stepping back never meant stepping away from the fight. My passion remains helping people. I’ve stood beside colleagues facing bullying, pushed back against unsafe workloads, and worked to ensure our workplaces respect human rights and dignity. I’ve spent countless hours tackling occupational health and safety, because no worker should ever choose between their paycheck and their wellbeing. When I say I “walk the talk,” I mean it. This path led me to align with incredible allies like Friends of Medicare and Public Interest Alberta, united by the common goal of fighting for justice and reform.
I was humbled to receive the Heather Jacobs Award in 2006 for my work with Indigenous families, and the Dove Award in 2022 for addressing inequities for women. I remember thinking, “Are you sure you’ve got the right Shamanthi?” But these awards weren’t just about me. They reflected the collective strength of teamwork and persistence. The real reward has been seeing the tangible change we create as a strong, unified union.
My extensive experience provides a deep understanding of AUPE sectors and Alberta’s legislation. I’ve consistently used that knowledge to tackle tough, systemic issues. Shadowing a Membership Services Officer gave me appreciation for the crucial support our members need. From helping staff file WCB claims for stress leave to co-chairing meetings with Assistant Deputy Ministers on workload strategies and burnout, I’ve learned that solutions require both compassion and courage. Sometimes, solutions start with tough love—like when we filed policy grievances against two ministries, reminding them a “collective agreement” isn’t just a phrase on a shelf, but a vital, living promise for workers.
I’ve been proudly on the front lines, leading a strike and participating in rallies. I’m comfortable speaking to anyone—from my union family to ministers in their corner offices. What truly inspires me most is helping our locals mobilize, engage, and welcome newbies. Watching our GOA members vote an incredible 90.1% in favor of strike action was one of those “wow” moments that unequivocally proved how powerful our solidarity is when we stand united.
As your next Vice President, I’ll bring not only knowledge and experience but also the relentless tenacity to keep fighting until solutions are found. Tenacity means consistently showing up even when the system tries its hardest to wear us down—I promise you, I won’t stop. Most of all, I bring deep gratitude for each of you who continually shows up, bravely speaks up, and works tirelessly to keep this incredible union strong.
Shamanthi Cooray
VP Candidate
Hello, my name is Remona Fox. I am asking for your support to represent all members in AUPE as a Vice President.
I have a family legacy of activism, in workplaces, with friends and colleagues, both in unions and in the community. I’m also from rural Alberta, and value strong relationships, showing up for each other, thriving together through adversity and walking your talk.
My union journey started in Local 095, during challenging times, facing issues of privatization, struggles with pay equity, and considerable growing pains on the journey of amalgamation. Through this, I learned fortitude and fierceness watching friends and colleagues engage in a process of change while standing up, fighting and speaking out about the loss of valuable services, such as laundry services provided by AUPE members and the cascading impacts to Albertans.
As a Child Protection worker in Local 006, I have been afforded the opportunity to collaborate and advocate. In Local 006, I support members by engaging in direct conversations with the employer on such issues as workload, working conditions and safety. I currently serve as the Chair of my Chapter, Provincial Executive Representative for my local, and Bargaining Committee Member. I am a Union Steward and a Strike Captain. While engaged in these activities, I have supported others to engage in union activities, to increase their union literacy, utilize technology as an engagement tool and to grow into strong union activists.
As a front-line worker, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the resilience required to perform efficiently in a system that is not functioning as it should and a personal appreciation for what it takes to still show up for those who count on us.
I come from a diverse background, and I carry that with pride. It shapes how I lead, how I listen and how I engage. My lived experience has increased my understanding of the importance of equity, inclusion and representation that isn’t symbolic but is structural. I’ve seen what happens when people are empowered with knowledge. They speak up, they organize, they transform their workplaces. These are the kind of actions I will support and grow through promoting a modernization of the roles and functions of the union, both within our chapters and locals and for the Albertans that we serve. I am committed to engaging in all facets of advocacy, including with government and through building relationships within our locals and chapters, and in the communities where we live, work and play. Ensuring it is known that all AUPE members serve Albertans by enhancing the lives of everyday people throughout the province. AUPE? Yeah ... we do that too!!! I am committed to continuing to fight for workers’ protections and rights in exceedingly challenging times. Thank you for your support as we continue to grow our union together.
Together, we rise by lifting others. In the words of my 11-year-old ... Letssssss Gooooooo!!!!! There’s work to be done. The time is now.
In Solidarity
Remona Fox
Shamanthi Cooray Local 006 • Edmonton
Remona Fox Local 006 • Carstairs
Two years ago, you placed your trust in me to serve as one of your VicePresidents. It has been an honour to represent you, and I’m asking once again for your support. Over this term, I’ve worked tirelessly to be a strong, reliable, and passionate advocate for our union—always guided by the belief that members, YOU, deserve visible, accountable, and principled leadership.
Being Vice-President isn’t about holding a title—it’s about showing up. I’ve stood shoulder-to-shoulder with members on Information picket lines, at rallies, and in town halls. I’ve joined strike lines with postal workers, education workers, and most recently flight attendants—all fighting for fairness and respect. Every time I stand on those lines, I carry the message that we never fight alone. Our union is strongest when united, and I’ll always be there, standing with you.
It’s important to understand leadership begins with listening. That’s why I’ve made it my priority to connect directly with members—through worksite visits, local meetings, and countless one-on-one conversations across our vast region. Every story shared has shaped my work. I don’t just speak on your behalf—I speak with you; your experiences have shown me the importance of the job I do.
From the start, I’ve committed to ensuring your voices are heard. Whether through media interviews, public speaking, or formal testimony, I’ve taken every opportunity to bring forward your concerns. I spoke before the House of Commons Environmental Standing Committee in Ottawa—the first time AUPE has ever appeared before a federal committee. I spoke about the dedication of our members, the challenges we face, and the need for employers to respect your work. When decisions are made about our province, AUPE members deserve to be heard—and I’ve worked hard to make sure that happens.
Bargaining has been at the heart of our work. As Vice-President, I’ve attended town halls across my region and the province, listening to members, answering questions, and keeping you informed every step of the way. At the table, we’ve all stood strong fighting to secure fair wages, protect public services, improve job security, and fight for manageable workloads. We’ve pushed for stronger mental health benefits and better workplace protections—because no member should struggle alone. We continue to be in bargaining as this is being written, it’s important we continue in this leadership, it’s about defending your rights, your safety, and your dignity.
This is why I can say solidarity is more than a slogan—it’s the foundation of our union. I’ve worked with locals, chapters, and allies across the province and national unions to strengthen our collective power. Each connection we build makes us stronger at the bargaining table, in our workplaces, and in our communities.
I’m running for re-election because I believe in AUPE, I believe in you, and I believe in what we can accomplish together. I ask for your support and together, we’ll continue building a union that’s strong, united, and ready to fight for what’s right.
Fellow Workers,
My name is Darren Graham from Local 57, AHS General Support Services, and I am seeking your support to continue representing you as one of your Vice-Presidents.
Since being elected, I have gained invaluable experience serving our union. It has been challenging, rewarding, and truly an honor. Over this past term, I was entrusted with the Central Zone and had the privilege of chairing both the Pension Committee and the Membership Services Committee. These roles allowed me to work closely with members across the province on issues that affect us all—protecting pensions, ensuring strong supports for members, and building systems that meet the needs of our union family. Combined with my past involvement at the Chapter, Local, and Area Council levels, along with my previous committee work, I bring more than 25 years of union experience to our collective fight. If re-elected, I will continue to draw on that experience to strengthen engagement, support our future leaders, and ensure AUPE remains strong, active, and united.
This year’s Convention theme is Union Power. But what does Union Power really mean? To me, it means that our greatest strength lies in our solidarity. It is the collective voice of tens of thousands of AUPE members standing together, showing our employers and governments that we are not passive— we are active, engaged, and unwilling to back down. We build that power in many ways: by attending union events, having conversations with coworkers, and standing with one another in moments of challenge. Union Power means activism. It means standing shoulder to shoulder with our coworkers and our communities. It means making sure we are never ignored.
Right now, this matters more than ever. Negotiations are underway, and we are at the table fighting for the gains our members deserve. But let me be clear: if employers try to hold us back, we will not back down. When we stand together, we make progress—whether that happens across the bargaining table or out on the street through collective action. Negotiations are where our Union Power is put to the test, and our solidarity is what makes the difference between standing still and moving forward. I am committed to supporting, engaging, and mobilizing members every step of the way, so that we bargain from a position of undeniable strength.
With your support, I will continue working across all sectors to drive engagement, strengthen solidarity, and hold governments accountable when their decisions put our members or Albertans at risk. I have always brought a strong voice, tireless dedication, and a proven work ethic to this role, and I will continue to serve with passion and purpose if re-elected as one of your Vice-Presidents.
Because Union Power is not just a theme—it is our strength, it is our future, and it starts with us all.
Let’s stand together, show our strength, and prove once again that nothing is more powerful than AUPE members united!
Respectfully and in Solidarity,
Darren Graham graham4vp@gmail.com
James Gault Local 003 • Edmonton
Darren Graham Local 057 • Red Deer
Who am I?
I am a mom, wife, sister, friend, Local 52 Full-time Chief Steward, AUPE member with Local 52 council for over 15 years, AUPE member with Calgary Area Council, AUPE representative on the University of Calgary Joint Worksite Health Safety committee, and convention delegate.
In the past I was the Provincial Executive Alternate, member of the Occupational Health and Safety Standing Committee, OHS Local Liaison, Staff representative for Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Committee and Chair of Local OHS and JWHSC.
I have taken Union courses, Steward training, Labour School, attended Union, safety, bargaining and accommodation conferences, completed OHS diploma, University of Alberta Indigenous training, University of Calgary Indigenous relations, University of British Columbia Future Legislators, Bachelor of Science Degree and most recently working on Conflict Management Certificate.
I am a perpetual learner. I enjoy sharing my skills with others to give them the confidence and opportunity to take on new tasks and challenges. I am great listener and advocate for all our members concerns and issues. I think ‘outside the box’ and try to find solutions for all problems. I give others advice on how to make themselves better advocate for their union rights.
Our members need a Vice-president that will pay attention to:
- Physical and Mental Safety
- Mentorship
- Community engagement
- Open communication
- Direct action advocacy
- Legislation knowledge
- Leadership
- Grassroots democracy
- Social and Political Activism
- Recruiting initiatives
- Raising awareness
- Engage, support, and empower union activists.
- Encouraging and channelling union activists’ energy
AUPE power does not come from the top of the organization. AUPE is built and manifested at the grassroots level, day-to-day, by local activists and members, in their workplaces, in collective bargaining and commitment to social and political activism in all whole province and in all our sectors.
We are facing many challenges. The labour market has become more fragmented over the past few decades, often threatening worker cohesion and solidarity in our workplaces and society. Employers want to cut costs and get rid of permanent jobs by creating agencies, contract workers, student workers, casual workers, limited roles and fixed term positions. We must address this issue in collective bargaining, defend our jobs, equal pay for equal work and life-work balance. Now is the time for the pendulum to swing back, to demand wages that we can live above the living wage, safe working conditions, balanced workload and understanding that it is our life not work that is the most important.
All of us – union leaders, activists and members have a role to play in raising awareness and persuading all workers of the advantages of being in a union. We all need to start taking notes what is being said, what we are being asked to do and what the government and leadership have promised. Everyone needs to be accountable for their actions.
How are we going to do that by DOCUMENTING.
DOCUMENT DOCUMENT
In Solidarity
Paulette Harrison
Local 52 Chief Steward
DOCUMENT
Hello there!
My name is Curtis Jackson. I am the current AUPE Vice President assigned to the South region and the chair of the Anti-Privatization and Young Activists standing Committees. I am excited to announce I am seeking re-election as your AUPE Vice President.
In October of 2023, I campaigned on a promise that I would support you in asking for what you’re worth. I encouraged big numbers for bargaining, shared my belief in accountability, integrity, grit, and “boots on the ground and fists in the air” activism. I’ve since been running non-stop to support AUPE members across this province in using your voices, growing your power, and demanding with conviction that the bosses recognize just how much you give every day. Whether it is at site visits across the south region or at rallies on the steps of the Legislature, I focused on encouraging each and every one of you to grow in your own leadership journeys. I cherish spending time with you at town halls, at rallies, at meetings, and at your AGM’s, learning about you and the vital service to Albertans you provide in the work you do.
I have shared my own stories, fought alongside you, screamed alongside you, chanted with you, and cried with you. You’ve shown me acceptance, support, and grace – even when I have been wrong. In doing so, you have supported me in turning mistakes into learning.
In my first term as your AUPE Vice President, I focused on making the most of the trust that you put in me. I focused on supporting you in the decisions you made as AUPE members and as leaders in our union. I believe in you, the members of AUPE, in your strength and your grit. Your determination to demand better continues to inspire me and proves without a doubt that the greatest resource our union has is you. You have helped me grow, and I am a better person today because of your support over the past two years. I have also sought to always find ways in which your union can support you, even when it seemed like there was nothing we could do. I fought hard to do my best to find solutions with the tools we have to find reasons to give you what you need as opposed to giving you excuses. My dedication to you remains unwavering.
I am grateful that I have the opportunity to ask for (and would be absolutely honored if I could count on) your support in October to continue to represent our members as a Vice President of AUPE. The work is not done, and I truly believe I have so much more to give to our union.
Yours in solidarity,
Curtis Jackson
Curtis Jackson Local 006 • Medicine Hat
Paulette Harrison Local 052 • Irricana
Jason Latoszek Local 054 • Edmonton
Greetings & Salutations:
I’m seeking your support at Convention 2025 for a VP position. For too long I’ve felt invisible, undervalued, and unappreciated as a support worker with AHS. I know that I’m not alone with these feelings as many of you are standing shoulder to shoulder with me, voicing similar concerns about your employer. I’ve sent countless emails about problems and concerns accompanied with creative solutions and rational to support them. Most of this correspondence I do at home and many of these emails take months to receive a response from management and a few remain unanswered. I attend unpaid “voluntary” meetings hoping that these issues will finally receive the attention they deserve but nothing seems to change. I’m tired of waiting for Superman. Aren’t you?
My journey in Healthcare began over 21 years ago as a casual Service Aide III in the ER at the Royal Alexandria Hospital under Capital Health. Minimum wage was $5.90/hour. Healthcare support worker starting wages were 2 to 2.5 times higher than minimum wage. I was earning $14.76/hour to start and within a few years of hard work had the required hours to achieve my one and only pay increase to $16.87/hour. These lucrative support worker jobs drew hundreds of applicants for these positions. Keep in mind that a starting RN (step 1of9) was earning $26.33/hour in May of 2004 (An $11.90 difference). Fun Fact: My 1.5 bath 2 bedroom + den apartment, heat & water incl. cost $725/month. Fast forward to today. Minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00/hour where it has remained since 2019, which is the lowest in the country. What ever happened to the Alberta Advantage, eh!?!? Healthcare support worker starting wages are now only 0.125 to 0.25 times higher than minimum wage. I’m now a Service Worker 1 as my old classification was condensed and renamed removing the 3rd ranking allowing only the OR to retain the higher classification. SW-1’s start at $20.44/hour with a single increase to $22.31/hour. Keep in mind that an RN (step 1of9) as of May 2025 earns $44.51/hour (A staggering $24.07 difference). Not so fun fact: That same apartment now costs $1579/month. Why has the wage gap between university educated workers and the rest of us widened by $12.17/hour over the past 21 years? Are we all not human beings that deserve equality, respect, and fairness? AHS and The GoA have failed us. It’s time to bring the wag gap back to 2004 levels!
I’ve been a backseat critic and observer for far too long. I’m not perfect. I will make mistakes. I need to be the change that I want to see in the world. I will fight until my last breath for all of us at the bottom. “For life is no ‘brief candle’ for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.” - GBS
CANDIDATE FOR VICE-PRESIDENT
Percy Ogden
Local 056 • Grande Prairie
My name is Percy Ogden, and I am a Power Engineer by trade—but my true calling has always been serving and protecting the rights of union members. For over 20 years, I have been an activist—first with CUPE, and now with AUPE—dedicated to supporting our members, building solidarity, and ensuring that our union remains strong and united.
I am running for Vice President because I believe in the power of collective action and the responsibility of leadership. Over my decades of service, I have seen firsthand what we can achieve when we stand together: fair wages, safe working conditions, strong benefits, and the respect we deserve in the workplace. I want to ensure those gains are protected, expanded, and strengthened for the generations of workers who will follow us.
My union journey has been built on commitment and accountability. I have served as a Steward for many years, advocating for members and making sure their voices are heard. I have represented Local 056 GSS North Zone on our Local Council Executive, I had the privilege of representing our Local Council at Provincial Executive for many years and had the honor of serving as Treasurer for Local 056. While managing our finances with transparency and a clear focus on the members’ best interests.
I have been an active member of the Finance Standing Committee and the Pension Committee for several terms. These roles have deepened my understanding of the importance of careful planning and fiscal responsibility. Whether protecting our pension plans or ensuring that union funds are used effectively, I have always approached these responsibilities with honesty, diligence, and a strong moral compass.
I believe leadership is about more than holding a position—it’s about being responsible, accountable, and strategic. It means adapting to change while staying true to our core values, and it means being ready to act when members need support. My vision for the Vice President role is simple: to be a strong, steady voice for all members, to encourage participation, and to unite us in the challenges and opportunities ahead.
If elected, my priorities will be clear:
• Fighting for job security and better wages
• Improving workplace safety standards and enforcement
• Fighting against discrimination and harassment
• Increasing member participation and engagement
• Securing and protecting our pension plans
Our union’s greatest strength is our solidarity. I have always had an overwhelming desire to serve our membership and fight for our rights and privileges. I am honest, and open-minded, with a vision for the future that combines experience, strategy, and the flexibility to adapt to new challenges.
Ultimately, I am running for Vice President because I care deeply about our members, our rights, and our future. I believe in responsible leadership, guided by strong moral principles, and a vision for the years ahead. Together, we can continue to build a union that is not only strong in the present but prepared for the future.
“Union Power—Stronger Together, Unstoppable Forever!”
CANDIDATE
Jesse Philp
Local 044 • Sylvan Lake
Jesse Philp for AUPE Vice President
Hi Friends — I am Jesse Philp, and I am running to be your next Union Vice President.
What I Stand For:
✅ Strong Contracts, Real Wins – No more settling for less. We fight for better wages, safer conditions, and real respect on the job. Everyone deserves a living wage.
✅ Transparency & Accountability – You deserve to know what is happening behind closed doors. I will keep you in the loop and in the lead. I will communicate effectively and with empathy.
✅ Equal Voices – No matter what your job is, or how long you have been in our Union, I will make sure every voice is heard and every member counts.
I am a passionate nurse, dedicated union activist, and proud mom. My journey in healthcare began with a simple desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Working in the emergency department has given me the ability to handle stress with compassion and empathy. It has taught me to be effective in high pressure environments.
My passion doesn’t just stop at nursing. I am also an avid union activist. Every public worker deserves a voice, fair treatment, and the tools they need to provide exceptional work. Through the Union, I am constantly advocating for better working conditions, fair wages, and adequate resources. Together, we will create an equitable environment where everyone can thrive, both professionally and personally.
I approach my work and my life with energy and enthusiasm. I believe that positivity is contagious, and I strive to spread that positivity wherever I go. I am always eager to connect with others, share ideas, and work collaboratively toward common goals. I’ve been on the work floor, on the picket line, and at home struggling to make a budget work for my family. I’ve listened, marched, rallied, and worked shoulder to shoulder with many of you. And I look forward to representing all of you.
I’m not running because I like meetings (although I’ve participated in many of them). I’m running because I believe in us — in the power of working people. When we organize, speak up, and fight for what we deserve, we win. Why Me?
• I know what it is like to fight for change. I have been at the negotiation table and witnessed the disrespect our employers have for us.
• For almost a decade, I’ve served in union leadership with a deep commitment to activism — leading, organizing, and mobilizing alongside our members to protect our hard-won gains and fight for the fair future every worker deserves. I have been a part of policy making and finance planning through standing committees.
• I believe in honest leadership and effective and timely communication, not empty promises.
This union is not just about me, or even you. It is about us, and the future we are building together. We are AUPE, you are AUPE, I AM AUPE.
Vote Jesse Philp for AUPE Vice President Leadership that works as hard as you do.
Laura Sadler
Local 095 • Calgary
Hello AUPE!
My name is Laura Sadler. I work as a porter at the Rockyview Hospital in Calgary. I am an active member of Local 95, and have been dedicated to AUPE for nearly a decade. I’ve served as Chapter Secretary, Chapter Chair, and Provincial Executive for the Local. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in the Young Activists Committee and Committee On Political Action, and spent a long time learning how our union works and listening to other members about how best to improve it.
There are two distinct pathways I would like to pursue if elected. The first is to energize and organize the membership. The union has been operating on a Strategic Plan for some time with moderate success and I would not derail that especially with the majority of our members in active bargaining close to labour action. However, one obstacle that has not been fully dismantled is reinvigorating the relationship between decision making bodies and the membership. Trust is key, and needs to be rebuilt. My foundation is transparency, and I believe that the membership is entitled to be informed about union processes and the union should be streamlined to aid member participation in lieu of bureaucracy. This means more direction coming from locals and frontline workers.
The second pathway I would pursue is to redirect AUPE into a leadership position when it comes to the labour movement as a whole. I laud the current and historic accomplishments of AUPE leaders and think we should be pushing further. Our members deserve strong advocacy for bold and unprecedented policy. I know the political climate, I know the challenges. I don’t think it will be easy. What I can promise is that if we don’t reach for a maximalist goal, our members will be left behind.
I look to the future. I anticipate a world where many of our unionized jobs in administration and operations are completely replaced with AI technology. I see our jobs in firefighting, heavy machinery operation, and sanitation, and I see robotization. I look at trends in public and private sectors across Canada and worldwide, and the trends are very troubling.
If we do nothing, we will not be able to protect our membership and the public from losing their hard earned place in our society delivering the services the public depends on. We need to actively fighting for NEW ideas in our collective agreements and for the government to pass FAIR legislation to ensure the gains of the 21st century are democratized to everyone. In that light, I think AUPE and the labour movement need to be fighting for legislation ensuring a 30 hour workweek, and for a robust Universal Basic Income.
I can’t fit all of my ideas here. I want to talk to you more and I want to hear from you! Please email: laurasadleraupe@gmail.com
Thank you, and please vote Laura Sadler for AUPE VP!
CANDIDATE FOR VICE-PRESIDENT
Merle Terlesky Local 095 • Calgary
Brothers and Sisters,
I ran for VP 2 years ago, and I have one question for you? How much has changed for you, as a member of AUPE? Have your wages increased? Do you feel closer to AUPE as a member, today? than you did 2 years ago? I would venture to guess, no! Well that needs to change, and soon. Change however, can only come if you want it to happen. Merle Terlesky for VP, for AUPE is change you can count on!
I am not new to the labor movement at large, in fact, since I was 17 I have been involved, with the 1986 Edmonton Gainers strike, to start, as a volunteer picket captain for one of the most intense and violent strikes in AB history.
I have the experience and determination to get the job done for the members, being a AUPE member since 2007. I have been a chapter chair and vice-Chair and council member and attended numerous conventions.
Today AUPE is at an important cross-roads , as many of us prepare for possible strike action, we lack the member participation. Yes GOA has a strong mandate, with over 80% participating in the strike vote.
However, in GSS we are lacking in a big way, with less than half of GSS members signed up for MY-AUPE ACCT, it would thus be very unwise to seek strike action for GSS. We simply can not get a strike mandate if we can not contact the GSS members. Thus we have a very real disconnect with the members. I have long held the opinion that it’s a real problem for AUPE. The question is? What to do?
Well I can promise you this, if I am elected as VP I will personally set out and get as many GSS members signed up in my area of responsibility as possible. If I have to go site to site to site that is what I will do, that is a commitment from me to you. Without that connection all we are is a union, with yes a large amount of members, but unless those same members are organized its just a big group of people with no where to go. We can chant from the rooftops “We are 90,000 strong AUPE” but unless we have the majority of those 90,000 committed and in solidarity, then it means nothing! A union is only as strong as the solidarity of its members, and I applaud the GOA sector for their tremendous organizing to get a strike mandate!
If elected you can count on me to be on the front lines of this great union and committed to making the union, your union! While I am only one VP if elected, I will work with the President and the other 5 VP’s to build solidarity among our members, and be 90,0000 strong and organized, in all sectors.
Will you work with me to make this happen? Elect Merle Terlesky as VP for AUPE www.terlesky4vp.com
Dalton White Local 095 • Elk Point
AUPE Brother and Sisters,
My name is Dalton White and I am proud to announce my candidacy for Vice President of our union. With your support, I will work tirelessly to protect our rights, strengthen our solidarity, and advance the values that define our membership.
As a fellow worker and a committed union member; I will work hard so our Union can negotiate fair contracts that reflect our high value we bring to our employers, fight back against injustice in the workplace, and to lift up the voices of those who are too often overlooked. I bring not only drive, but a deep respect for the history, purpose, and power of our union.
As Vice President, I will champion transparency, inclusion, and proactive leadership. I believe that every member should be informed, involved, and inspired. I will push for regular communication with members, open-door policies for leadership, and fair representation for all sectors of our union. Every grievance matters. Every voice counts. And every contract should reflect the real needs of our membership
My vision is rooted in unity. Whether you work in administration, trades, services, or operations, we are stronger together. We all want dignity at work, safe conditions, fair wages, and dependable benefits. I will fight to protect what we’ve earned, and to push for what we still deserve. I will not back down when management overreaches. I will not stay silent when members are mistreated. I will be your advocate at the table and your ally in the field.
I also understand that the challenges facing unions today are complex. From legislative threats to changing work environments, we must stay alert, informed, and prepared. That means modernizing how we organize, educate, and mobilize. I will work to equip our union with the tools and strategies to remain strong in the years ahead building solidarity across departments and all our members.
Finally, I believe in accountability. If elected, I will be answerable to you our members, our President, Executive Committee and our AUPE Constitution; Not just during election season, but every single day I serve. I will listen to your concerns, welcome your ideas, and act in the best interest of all members. Together, we can uphold the integrity and strength of our union.
Thank you for your consideration, your trust, and your continued commitment to each other. Let’s build the future of our union together.
In solidarity,
Dalton White Candidate for Vice President AUPE member
Sherry Wickwire Local 095 • Airdrie
For over four decades, Sherry Wickwire has exemplified unwavering dedication to helping those in need, serving her community with compassion, courage, and tireless commitment. Her journey began as a first response medic and ski patroller, where she provided critical care in high-pressure environments. She continued her service as a volunteer firefighter and as a court support advocate for abused women and families, offering strength and guidance during their most vulnerable moments.
Since joining Alberta Health Services, Sherry has worn many hats, each one reflecting her versatility and leadership. She has served as a Bed Coordinator, Unit Clerk, Provincial Superuser, N95 Mask Fitter, and a member of the Family Centered Care Committee. Her role as a WorkSafe Instructor and Emergency Response Lead further highlights her dedication to safety and preparedness.
Among her many contributions, working on 14 inpatient medical and surgical units, full-time, Sherry’s favorite role is been that of Union Steward, where she has passionately advocated for fairness, respect, and the well-being of her colleagues. Her ability to lead with empathy and integrity has made her a trusted voice and a pillar of support within the organization.
Sherry Wickwire’s legacy is one of service, advocacy, and heart. Her impact spans generations and disciplines, and she continues to inspire those around her with her unwavering commitment to making a difference.
As we move forward together toward fair contracts and higher wages
I envision a union that is responsive, inclusive, and empowering. If elected, I will work tirelessly to:
* Support and empower Union Stewards so they can fully serve our members
* End constant MSO and Organizing role changes to ensure stability and consistency
* Create equal opportunities for our members to be hired within the AUPE
* Simplify reporting of working short and safety concerns
* Streamline the grievance process for faster, fairer outcomes
* Mentor new union activists and build leadership from within
* Introduce fresh, engaging ideas to connect with and support our members
Vote for me, because with your support, we can build a stronger, more united future. It’s time!
Sherry Wickwire
VP Candidate
My Fellow Workers!
My name is Andrew Wilson, and I am asking for your vote to be your next AUPE Vice President.
I moved to Sundre, Alberta at the end of 2014 to start my Job as a Maintenance Services Worker at the Sundre Hospital. I have been active as a Union Steward since 2018.
I’ve been involved at the Local level since I attended a meeting as an Alternate. I’ve been a Local Council Rep, the Vice Chair, the Local Chair, and on our Member Engagement Committee.
I have sat on the AUPE Pension Committee for two terms. There is a circulating joke that in a room full of activists, don’t give Wilson the Microphone unless you want to hear about pensions. There’s truth behind that joke; I want ensure our members are educated on their pensions so they are well prepared for retirement. I want to fight with members towards the improvement or creation of retirement plans for those that do not yet have one. I want to make sure that not one dollar is left on our bargaining table when it could have gone to a securing retirement for our members.
I am recognizable as “the guy from the insurance video.” I discovered how valuable our Member’s Discount program is and I share this information with everyone. I am thrilled each time a member tells me how much they saved using our discount program.
If anyone has listened to me talk for long enough, eventually I say “we go out, we find the best things, and we bring them home with us.” I have walked my union path the past number of years according to that principle. I meet with Members outside of my Local, Bargaining unit, and outside of my sector. Everyone I have talked to has great ideas on how to improve life for our members, and I take those good things home with me to my Local, Chapter, and worksite. But it is time to switch things up. It is time for me to start spreading the positive ideas, the tips, tricks, and successes I’ve had in my Local with AUPE members across the province.
I’m going to focus on the positives we are afforded as part of this great union, ensuring that all members know every benefit that comes with their membership.
I will stand shoulder to shoulder with our members as we fight towards better wages and job security.
I will challenge the current trend towards privatization and do everything I can to maintain a strong, well protected public service in Alberta.
Together, we will fight for a better life for all members through collective bargaining, rallies and education. When the time comes to put our boots on the pavement, I’ll be the tall one holding the megaphone.
I truly believe that with me, Andrew Wilson, as your next AUPE Vice President, our future’s so bright, you gotta wear shades.
Andrew Wilson Local 057 • Sundre
You can start building your picket line playlist today! When it’s ready to go, share it with all your fellow striking members by scanning this QR code. AUPE will share all your playlists if we go on strike.
Don’t just walk the picket line—dance down it!
Keep snacking!
There is no shortage of snacks on the picket line. In fact, you often hear strikers say they received far too many donuts from supporters and allies. So why not try something unique?
AUPE members across the province have hosted BBQs, Lunch ‘n’ Learns, and Facts ‘n’ Snacks to whip up solidarity. Let’s keep that going on the picket line.
Organize potlucks, keep the coffee flowing, and encourage your friends and family to show their support with fun, nutritious, and tasty snacks. Everyone appreciates volunteers who can cook up a good time.
Strikes are serious business... but we need our bread and roses, too!
By Kavi Chahal, Communications Staff
“We’re ready to stand up for our rights, fair wages, and the working conditions we deserve,” says Azocar. “We know what’s at stake, we know what we deserve, we won’t back down, and we will have fun fighting for it!” < AUPE members are prepared to hit the picket lines. There are challenges ahead, and going on strike is a big decision, but who says we can’t have fun with it?
As a matter of fact, turning the picket line into an engaged and exciting space is one of the best ways to keep our solidarity strong.
“We know that our hearts and spirits play a big role in how we weather difficult times,” says AUPE Vice-President Sandra Azocar. “AUPE members’ hearts are full and our spirits are high, and that’s how we create a strong, energized union.”
So, how do you start a party on the picket line? It’s easier than you think.
Dress the part!
By now, AUPE members are very familiar with sending a message by dressing the part. We show our solidarity across the province by wearing red when we take action to support our negotiating teams.
By striking a pose, turning heads, and raising awareness, we put the pressure on our employers while having fashion fun.
We’ll keep it up (and on) if we hit the strike lines. Our employers know what it means when we wear red—let’s keep them on their toes.
Want some bonus points? Picket lines get a lot of attention, but why not even more?
Fun costumes and funny outfits are always welcome. Be bold, take up space, dress like a dinosaur, do a little dance!
Speaking of dances...
Bump the tunes!
You can’t have a party without music. Setting your strike line to the right soundtrack sets you up for immaculate vibes. There’s no right or wrong way to choose your tunes, just ensure you keep the energy going (skip the heart breaking ballads).
Songs about solidarity, overcoming adversity, and fighting the good fight are solid picks. We also hear that dad-rock is making a comeback. When in doubt, play whatever helps your group have fun and keep the good times going.
We’re ready to stand up for our rights, fair wages, and the working conditions we deserve. We know what’s at stake, we know what we deserve, we won’t back down, and we will have fun fighting for it!
Sandra AZOCAR
Vice-President
Have you seen Jules Noel (Local 057) super jump from rally to rally? Union events can and should be fun!
AUPE members learn from each other as momentum grows
The “Big 3” Tables may get the headlines, but all bargaining is important.
“With almost all of AUPE’s 100,000 members at some stage in bargaining for new collective agreements, there is a tremendous opportunity for us to share experiences and learn how best to fight for better deals,” says AUPE President Guy Smith.
It’s helpful for us to all think about how we got here. A year and a half ago, in December 2023, AUPE set out on this journey with an ambitious strategic plan. We had already organized bargaining conferences by sector in the fall of 2023 and identified the key themes common to every bargaining table. Not surprisingly, higher wages were, and still are, the number one priority for every single one of our bargaining tables.
We followed up the bargaining conferences by holding 50 community town halls across the province in the spring and summer of 2024, which brought together AUPE members from different sectors and multiple worksites. Many worksites organized information pickets and rallies inviting other AUPE members in their communities to join them, to drive home the fact we would all show up for each other. We also discussed how we could support each other in bargaining, no matter how large or small the bargaining unit is that the members belong to.
It is true that the big bargaining tables such as Government of Alberta (GOA) and the two with Alberta Health Services (AHS) are impactful and influential on a large scale. After all, about two-thirds of AUPE members fall under those three collective agreements. But all bargaining is important for the wages, working conditions and well-being of all members. And, in fact, we have over 90 collective agreements at the bargaining table right now.
That is why when AUPE built strategies to engage and mobilize the membership to fight hard in bargaining, everyone was included. Whether it was asking members to wear red, attend community town halls, participate in activities, or training Strike Captains, it was important that all members in bargaining were part of building the strength and solidarity needed to support each other, no matter the size of the bargaining unit they belong to. The goal is to have the entire membership strike ready.
“It is not an easy decision to vote for a strike or to hit the streets,” says Smith. “Members expect and deserve to be kept informed, so they can make decisions with confidence.
“But, overall, we’re building real solidarity between all 100,000 of our members in the largest mobilization effort AUPE has ever seen.”
So, while the “Big 3” tables get most of the headlines, let us not forget that all bargaining is just as important, whether it is in other areas of Healthcare, Long-term care, Post Secondary and K-12 Education, Boards and Agencies, Municipalities, and private industry.
“Although many rounds of bargaining, in all the sectors AUPE represents, will be influenced by what transpires at the ‘Big 3’ tables, it is so important that all members prepare for their own fight to win the collective agreements they need,” said Smith. “Furthermore, all members, regardless of the size of their bargaining unit, need to know that their union has the capacity and resources to support them in their particular struggle.”
We all started out together, in the same rallies and town halls, and although it can feel like we are moving on our own to our separate tables, that is not the case. We are as united as ever with many tables lining up around similar demands and pushing a common demand: that all workers in Alberta deserve better and together we can win the wages and working conditions we need to keep supporting our families and communities.
“Ultimately, all members can be confident in knowing that regardless of the size of their bargaining unit or how long their strike lines will be, their union will be there with them for as long as it takes,” states Smith. <
All members can be confident in knowing that regardless of the size of their bargaining unit or how long their strike lines will be, their union will be there with them for as long as it takes.
Guy SMITH President
Direct action is how we disrupt the status quo. But why is that a good thing?
Too often, the status quo only benefits the rich and powerful who want to stay rich and powerful. The bosses and politicians in charge cut corners to save money instead of saving lives. Their version of the status quo tries to convince us to accept less than we deserve.
The status quo protects the powerful. We disrupt it to protect the people, and we do it through Direct Action.
AUPE Vice-President Bobby-Joe Borodey knows that making waves at work can be uncomfortable. But she also knows the power of organizing. When you forge real connections with your coworkers, and create a real plan for action, you make it easier to change your workplace and harder for your employer to intimidate you.
“Complacency is the enemy of change,” says Borodey. “It’s important to care, to act and to work together. That’s how we fight to achieve better outcomes at our workplaces. You work hard. You contribute your skills and labour to the province. You deserve respect. Don’t let your boss convince you otherwise.”
So what is Direct Action? It is an old union strategy that is new to many of us. To help, AUPE has developed a series of videos to show members what Direct Action is, how it works, and celebrate the members who have used it successfully.
NEED A CHANGE AT WORK? YOU NEED DIRECT ACTION
AUPE members across the province have used Direct Action to make positive changes at work. Their case studies are chronicled on AUPE’s revamped YouTube channel.
By Maureen Mariampillai, Communications Staff
Some of our greatest victories— including better wages, benefits, workplace safety, and more—come not from asking, but demanding.
Bobby-Joe BORODEY Vice-President
Direct Action Works!
Change does not happen overnight. We must be strategic, with clear goals and clear demands for management.
WATCH: Learn how AUPE members made a government Minister nervous at the St. Paul courthouse.
Learning from successful Direct Action campaigns help us build on each other’s experiences.
WATCH: AUPE members who work for Covenant Health share their experience with taking on their employer and making improvements at their workplace.
Learning from other campaigns is important, but sometimes we must try new tactics. One or two actions may not get you the result you want. That’s where building a more long-term strategic campaign comes in to play.
WATCH: AUPE members at the University of Calgary worked hard to save the university book store. At first, they did not succeed, but then they tried again and won!
Pressuring your employer is crucial when challenging the status quo. Direct Action is successful when workers use tactics that make it impossible for their employer to ignore them.
WATCH: Starting with low-risk but visible actions, then working up to bigger, louder actions, is key to catching the employer’s attention and increasing the pressure.
“Some of our greatest victories— including better wages, benefits, workplace safety, and more—come not from asking, but demanding,” says Borodey. “Most employers do not treat workers well simply because it is the right thing to do. Instead, workers have had to fight for what we deserve, and AUPE members are showing the rest of the province how it’s done.”
Direct Action is more than just something we can do. It creates a culture of solidarity and organizing that keeps union members active, engaged, and prepared to fight when we must. That is how we truly challenge the status quo—and create a new one. <
SKY HIGH PROFIT$ rock bottom care
Care home operators are raking it in. But their greed leaves workers out in the cold and residents in need.
By Kavi Chahal, Communications Staff
Alberta has a big privatization problem.
The Government of Alberta, for decades, has carved up public services and auctioned them off to the highest bidder. This is perhaps most obvious in long-term care and continuing care, as the province has ensured that services for our ill and elderly are very often handled by private companies.
“Corporations that prioritize profits over quality care are among the leading threats facing Albertans’ health care needs,” says AUPE Vice-President Curtis Jackson, “The conditions in long-term and continuing care facilities are bleak, and it is the staff and seniors who are bearing the brunt of our government’s ideological decisions.”
Back in 1991, 40 per cent of continuing care beds were publicly operated. Public ownership ensured higher quality care and accountability, while less than a third were owned by non-profit and for-profit operators. Thirty years later, publicly owned beds only make up 20 per cent of total beds, with for-profit operators more than doubling that
share at 45 per cent. In fact, for-profit operators constructed 60 per cent of new care beds over the last several decades.
But how did those corporations pay for all that construction? The answer is with your taxes, of course. The Government of Alberta, driven by its agenda, funneled public dollars into private, for-profit companies.
Nearly half the cost of building private facilities was funded by Government grants.
Public money taken from everyday Albertans to line shareholder pockets and cut corners with care. It would be comedy gold if it were not our tragic reality.
“This is privatization 101,” says Jackson. “Private companies try to increase their profits by cutting wages and staffing levels. That’s what they call ‘finding efficiencies.’”
Your money flows to these private operators every day through per-resident funding and government subsidies. You would hope all this money made its way to the hard-working AUPE members who provide quality care for residents. Instead, far too much of it goes to
This is privatization 101. Private companies try to increase their profits by cutting wages and staffing levels. That’s what they call ‘finding efficiencies.’
CEOs and shareholders.
“AUPE members are overworked and underpaid for the critical care they provide,” says Jackson. “Private care employers make money hand over fist, but only hand out low wages for their staff. It is just not right.”
Private operators use every trick in the book to avoid paying workers fairly. Hiring part-time and casual workers helps them avoid paying competitive wages and full benefits. They make those low paid workers do more with less, too. Short-staffing keeps the business costs down but burns workers out.
It is not just the workers who struggle. Residents are left with too little support and too few resources. Without enough trained staff to address residents’ needs, the quality of care sharply declines.
Studies have shown that for-profit care homes have lower staffing levels and more verified complaints. Private ownership also results in more transfers to hospitals—once again increasing costs for Albertans while keeping profits private, not to mention adding further strain to our public health care system.
“It’s clear that care homes, like all aspects of health care, should be publicly delivered,” says Jackson. “Public ownership ensures AUPE members and their fellow workers are able to provide the quality services Albertans deserve.” <
Curtis JACKSON Vice-President
UNION POWER IS WORKER POWER – YOU ARE AUPE
Change doesn’t happen in meeting rooms. It happens on the shop floor.
By Maureen Mariampillai, Communications Staff
There is a common misconception about unions.
Unions do not create worker power – they are worker power.
The definition of a labour union is an organization of workers formed to protect the rights and advance the interests of its members concerning wages, benefits, and working conditions.
Technically, that is true. But there’s so much more to it. Unions like AUPE are the collective experience of workers in struggle. Members are not simply a part of the union -they are the union.
Change doesn’t happen in meeting rooms. It happens on the shop floor, in the lunch room, during coffee breaks, and on the streets of our communities. It is in the moments of connecting with fellow workers. It is in sharing our stories, our songs, our values and protecting one another from corporate greed and political schemes.
Unions are not insurance companies or a service provider that does things for you. We are a movement, not a business.
The exploitation of workers is rampant in Alberta. AUPE members are working short, in some cases working two to three jobs to afford the cost of living. It is not right and it is time for change. That change starts with the members.
Housing, groceries and utilities prices have risen significantly over the years. Our population has grown, which means more demand for the services AUPE members provide.
AUPE Vice-President Darren Graham says a union is how we maintain the balance of power against profit-driven employers.
“Any gains we make are a direct result of members standing together and speaking with one voice,” Graham says. “A union is just a name on paper without members.
A strong union is built every day by the members who make it up. It cannot be ignored, divided or conquered – no matter how hard your boss tries.”
As western Canada’s largest union, we are an unstoppable force. In just the past year more than a thousand working people from over eight worksites joined or reorganized to strengthen AUPE and that number will continue to rise.
The strength in solidarity comes from the actions each and every member takes. Whether you wear red at work, click your pens, join your negotiating team, march on the boss, or march in the streets.
The moment you sense an injustice at work and take action to resolve it – this is the union’s power in action. But power isn’t built overnight.
Attending events like BBQs, Lunch ‘n’ Learns, Meet and Greets, signing up for AUPE education courses and volunteering
for executive positions keep our Locals, Chapters, and Area Council strong, diverse, and engaged.
“There’s no better way to feel more part of the union family when we gather and celebrate our wins and support each other through our challenges,” Graham says.
When we participate, we transform the union into a living force. We drive progress, fairness and respect in the form of better wages, working conditions, benefits, pensions and job security.
Because is not that the whole point? To enjoy our life outside of work, contribute to society, and thrive in our communities. <
Any gains we make are a direct result of members standing together and speaking with one voice.
The program is a confidential and voluntary support service that can help you take the first step toward change.
You and your immediate family members can access immediate and confidential support if you’ve experienced a traumatic or crisis event at work. After an initial assessment, you will receive up to six counselling sessions per situation. You also have access to financial assistance through the assistance program.
Note that support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year, at no cost to you.
If you are going through a difficult time, remember the program is only a phone call away.
Darren GRAHAM Vice-President
IN FOCUS
Rally. Resist. Rise.
Solidarity is no stranger to AUPE members. We organized ourselves and held rallies all year to support our negotiating teams. It takes a lot of effort, and can be difficult at times, but that is how we build a stronger union. When we fight, we win!
The Alberta College of Social Workers serves as the regulatory college for the profession of social work in Alberta. ACSW’s mandate is to serve and protect the public interest by the professional regulation of social work; setting standards and administering fair and reliable processes for registration, continuing competence, and discipline.
ACSW Mandate & Purpose:
• To serve and protect the public interest
• To regulate and provide direction to the social work profession
• To establish, maintain and enforce requirements for registration and continuing competence
• To establish and maintain requirements for practice enhancements
• To establish, maintain and enforce standards of practice and a code of ethics
• To establish and maintain a complaints and discipline process
• To approve social work education programs for registration
Visit www.acsw.ab.ca
LEARNING FROM OUR PAST TO BUILD A BETTER FUTURE LEARNING FROM OUR PAST TO BUILD A BETTER FUTURE
ALHI is proud of its ongoing work with AUPE in support of the union’s centennial project. We also appreciate the strong support from AUPE activists and leaders for our efforts to preserve and make public the vital, rich historical contributions of Alberta’s working people.
