OPSEU social mapping achievements

February 4, 2013

Since September 2011, the Social Mapping Implementation Task Force has been acting on more than 150 recommendations developed by the Project Consultant in Phase II of the Project. In Phase II, the Project Consultant examined two OPSEU systems: education and electoral systems. In March 2012, the OPSEU Executive Board referred the recommendations from Phase III of the social mapping project to the Task Force for implementation. In Phase III of the project, the consultant examined three systems: communications, organizing and bargaining. 

Implementation of Phase II Recommendations

Of the 150 Phase II recommendations that the Task Force is currently implementing, six of the implemented recommendations include motions and resolutions that have been approved by the Executive Board.

Motions and Resolutions

Examples of motions and resolutions that have passed at the Executive Board include:

• A new Accommodation Policy—members with disabilities can better participate in all aspects of the union, including Convention and Regional/Divisional meetings;

• A motion to utilize a third-party auditor to conduct an accessibility audit of Convention facilities;

• LEC’s are now required to submit the minutes at which they elected delegates; and the number of days that constitute “reasonable notice” for local elections is now specified in policy—thereby strengthening the integrity of the electoral process.

• To embed equity in all OPSEU training and development, a regular time is to be included for equity topics in plenary sessions in regional educationals,

Existing or New Practice

More than 20 OPSEU practices have been developed or revised by the Task Force in response to social mapping recommendations. A few of these new and existing practices are:

• In order to ensure consistent compliance with OPSEU’s equity goals, members are encouraged to self-identify when they register for convention, regional meetings, educationals and conferences;

• Promotion of the Bargaining for Equity and Pay Equity Educational documents thereby increasing organizational capacity for equity;

• Revised member orientation materials that acknowledge and welcome groups of focus; including a video produced for 2012 Convention;

• Development of an accommodation policy and an accommodation request form to ensure members with disabilities can be confident that the accommodation they require will be provided at events and meetings.

Policy/Practice Changes in Progress

The Task Force is in the process of implementing more than 45 recommendations.  A few examples include:

• Research into best practices regarding targeted recruitment and limit terms;

• A process for reporting election irregularities;

• Development of a “wise practices” document that describes the knowledge, skills and experience needed in the various member positions in order to serve the full diversity of the membership.

Implementation of Phase III Recommendations

The Task Force is currently reviewing the Phase III recommendations and prioritizing short and long-term activities required for implementation. This includes developing specific tasks for each recommendation, researching recommendations and reviewing financial implications.

Communication and Engagement Strategy

The Task Force has already produced a logo, project banner, buttons, and newsletter for the 2012 Convention. In 2013, the Task Force communications and engagement projects will include:

• A newsletter in order to provide a summary of the continuing achievements of the project and future goals;

• A video targeting current ways members are supporting the social mapping project; innovative actions and strategies;

• A booklet and CD for members that will outline the purpose and achievements of the social mapping project; key resources that will assist members to identify systems and barriers in the union, workplace and community; and an interactive survey.

Understanding Systemic Barriers: A primer

The Social Mapping Task Force will be producing a booklet for members that will outline key achievements of the social mapping project and resources that will assist members to identify systems and barriers in the union and in their workplaces.