Women’s Conference 2024

 

Unifor’s Women’s Conference brought together over 350 sisters and siblings from across Canada, representing diverse sectors of the labour force, including healthcare, aviation, automotive, skilled trades, and media. Although the media group was the smallest, the connections I made were incredibly impactful. This year’s theme, Women Rise, resonated deeply with all of us and perfectly captured the spirit of the event.

 

This was my first time visiting the Family Education Centre (FEC) and attending a major committee event, and it far exceeded my expectations. The four-day conference was filled with inspiring keynote speakers, including Lana Payne, our national president, and Fae Johnstone, a renowned organizer, strategist, and spokesperson with Queer Momentum. I also had the privilege of participating in three out of four caucuses: BIWOC (Black, Indigenous, and Women of Colour), LGBTQ+, and Young Workers. At the Young Workers’ caucus, I found my “crew.” We engaged in dynamic discussions about strategies to involve and energize our young members to participate in union activities and committees aimed at driving social change.

 

A significant part of the conference was dedicated to learning and personal growth. On the final day, we participated in a workshop on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), where I gained valuable insights into the various forms of abuse that women experience. This workshop served as an excellent precursor to the Women’s Advocate training that I will soon undertake.

 

While the conference was intensive, there were opportunities for reflection and connection. We participated in reflection walks, discussing key issues affecting women today. I chose the Women’s Mental Health walk, a topic close to my heart as someone who sees two therapists. Social events included a lively bingo night with an array of Unifor swag prizes. Although I didn’t win, the organizers were kind enough to give consolation coffee mugs to those who didn’t. Our final night featured a “Feminist Prom,” where participants dressed up, some in tiaras, while others, like me, opted for a more casual look.

 

I ended up staying off-campus at the Quality Inn in Southampton, which was about a 20-minute ride from the FEC. Early mornings and relatively early evenings reminded me of my university commuting days. Despite the inconvenience, this setup kept me focused and fully engaged in the conference activities, enabling me to take diligent notes and actively participate. It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, ask questions, and build new friendships.

 

Overall, this conference was an inspiring and eye-opening experience. It highlighted the incredible achievements of other locals, such as raising $60,000 for a women’s shelter in a single event or holding candlelight vigils to remember the victims of the December 6 Montreal Massacre. Hearing these stories has motivated me to bring similar initiatives to our local chapter.

 

In Solidarity,

Alanna Cardona (723m Steward)