A core of our union’s work is to empower members to make a difference in their workplace and community. We want to share an example of just that, a leader who saw an injustice and took action.
Recently, members in the Niagara region, led by Executive Board Representative for Persons with Disabilities Briar Moore, brought our collective fight to the frontlines of period poverty.
“Period poverty is a systemic issue rooted in inequality. You’d be shocked how many people can’t afford period products,” says Briar. “You can’t work, go to school, or live with dignity if you’re worried about bleeding through your clothes.”
This member-led campaign, supported by our union, joined forces with the United Way Niagara’s Period Promise campaign to get essential menstrual products into the hands of people who need them most. From shelters to schools to detox centres, this campaign reached across Niagara in a big way.
Members throughout the region led the collection, with nearly 85,000 products collected in total. In addition, more than $12,000 was raised through financial donations.
Members at Niagara Health also made a critical connection between the United Way and their hospital’s Withdrawal Management Services department, ensuring ongoing access to free period products for patients undergoing recovery.
That’s what our union is all about: identifying a problem and finding a solution.
The campaign is also a great example of the labour movement’s solidarity in action. Postal workers from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) stepped up too, delivering product bundles across the region.
Fighting period poverty isn’t just about distributing products; it’s about dignity, access, and health equity. Thanks to the efforts of our members, this campaign has been a meaningful success and a model for future action by member leaders across our union.
“This is what solidarity looks like,” Briar said. “We don’t just fight for wages. We fight for each other.”
Do you have an idea or campaign you want to action in your workplace or community? Step up your leadership by contacting your steward, member services union representative, or by emailing us at communications@seiuhalthcare.ca. We’re here to support ideas of all sizes!