Values
Everyone is Included
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just something we do, they are non-negotiable values that define who we are.
In Action
Embrace diversity: We actively invite and respect diverse perspectives, experiences, and identities, and work to overcome personal biases to ensure all voices are heard, valued, and supported.
Communicate openly: We are present, transparent, and empathetic in our communications and interactions to build inclusivity.
Promote fair and equal opportunities: We promote representation and equal opportunities for all members to participate in union activities and decision-making processes.
Eliminate barriers: We identify and remove visible and non-visible barriers that limit access and implement workable solutions to ensure inclusivity.
Reach broadly: We make sure information reaches every member and remove barriers to understanding.
IT IS NOT:
- Allowing personal judgements or biases get in the way of the best interests of our union.
- Creating barriers or not being accessible.
- Limiting representation or excluding certain individuals or groups.
- Ignoring judgemental behaviour.
Authentic Connection
We are honest, genuine, and transparent, fostering trust and understanding.
In Action
Acknowledge all communication forms: We show empathy and respect diverse ideas and perspectives without judgment or prejudice.
Foster open and transparent dialogue: We create safe spaces for inclusive, honest conversations where stories are shared and messages are received openly.
Communicate proactively: We share timely and clear information to address issues before they escalate. We focus on solutions and follow-up to complete the communication loop.
Engage collaboratively: We listen actively and speak with others, not at them, respecting their choices and opinions.
Ensure accessibility: We adapt our communication style by observing non-verbal cues, tone, cadence, and individual needs (e.g., language limitations, disabilities). We use plain language to support clear and respectful interactions.
IT IS NOT:
- Making excuses for our negative impact because our intentions were positive.
- Being dishonest or vague to push our own agenda.
- Speaking over others, dominating conversations, or using a condescending or patronizing tone.
- Dismissing others’ perspectives or experiences or showing judgement, bias or prejudice.
- Making promises and not following through.
- Using non-inclusive language, excluding others, or ignoring barriers to communication
Courageous Action
Knowledge is power. We speak our truth and spark the action. No matter what.
In Action
Be change makers: We stand together to take bold action in adversity, demonstrating resilience to achieve meaningful results, while respecting each individual.
Courageous conversations: We hold difficult discussions with courageous authenticity to protect the health and safety of workers and their vulnerable clients.
Be accountable: We commit to one another to achieve shared goals by taking the lead, following through, and resolving issues effectively.
Show unity and strength: We rally members, mobilize efforts, and lobby governments to create impactful change and foster partnerships.
Grow as leaders: We build our competencies to act decisively and with integrity in the face of challenges.
IT IS NOT:
- Acting out of self-interest.
- Excluding or marginalizing workers.
- Conforming, staying quiet, or accepting the status quo.
- Passing judgment or dehumanizing others.
- Fighting for members(vs. with members).
Activating Power
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just something we do, they are non-negotiable values that define who we are.
In Action
Activate relationships: We build strong connections with members to uplift them, recognize their potential, and help them find and use their voices to advocate for themselves and their colleagues.
Mentor and inspire: We help members identify and develop their strengths by providing constructive feedback, building their confidence, and supporting their personal and professional growth.
Recognize achievements: We celebrate members’ efforts to encourage and inspire others to engage and participate visibly in events and initiatives.
Provide accessible resources: We offer tools, training, workshops, mentorship programs, and educational opportunities to enable members to grow as leaders.
Foster leadership: We identify and nurture the leader in everyone by creating more member-led initiatives and ensuring equitable access to growth opportunities.
IT IS NOT:
- Hoarding power, micromanaging, or acting out of personal gain.
- Meeting needs inequitably or failing to recognize all members’ potential.
- Oppressing others, creating barriers to growth, minimizing accomplishments, or taking credit for others’ work.
- Speaking for members without empowering their voices to be heard.
- Creating divisions, negativity, or a hierarchical environment that stifles collaboration.
Stronger Together
When we stand together as one—committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and collaborative environment—we not only strengthen our union, but we also empower each person to thrive and make a meaningful impact.
In Action
Member-centric: We treat members with unconditional positive regard. We show them that their voices matter by involving them meaningfully in decisions and celebrating their achievements.
Foster belonging and collaboration: We proactively create opportunities for connection, participation, and mutual empowerment. We build a community where members collaborate as a collective voice.
Advocate broadly for justice: We champion the rights of members in the workplace as well as the broader community. We create a hub of support for social justice issues where access to resources are readily available and we align our interests with our community allies.
Invest in education and awareness: We offer ongoing educational opportunities and celebrate cultural diversity to enhance understanding, unify the community, and raise awareness of diverse life experiences.
Leverage inclusive practices and tools: We use technology and approaches that ensure broad participation and eliminate barriers.
IT IS NOT:
- Acting selfishly or in an autocratic manner.
- Prioritizing one group over another, marginalizing, or silencing others.
- Creating unwelcoming or transactional interactions.
- Dismissing, judging, or undermining others’ ideas or opinions.
- Avoiding difficult conversations or not taking accountability for actions or decisions.
- Ignoring or disrespecting cultural differences and failing to foster tolerance.
