The purpose of the Support Fund for Racialized Members who Experience Discrimination, Harassment, and Violence is to support BIPOC (Black and/or Indigenous and/or People of Colour) members who confront discrimination, harassment, and violence in the workplace.
The committee meets three times a year, once per semester. The committee may also adjudicate funds on a rolling basis. Please allow for a possible 4 weeks to receive a decision from the committee, in the event that you submit your application just after the committee has met.
Members are eligible for a maximum of $2,500 from the Support Fund and only one application can be approved per member per year (i.e., September to August).
Email: cupe3903.sfrm@gmail.com
Who is eligible for the Support Fund?
Any racialized CUPE 3903 members, i.e. those who self-identify as BIPOC and are in good standing, qualify for the Support Fund if they have an active complaint or grievance with the Employer/University, filed with the support of the union, concerning racial discrimination, harassment, and violence. This fund does not cover costs for dependents.
What is covered under the Support Fund?
The fund can be used to cover a range of expenses incurred , and will vary depending on the member’s complaint or grievance. Some examples include but are not limited to the cost of therapy, lost income, and other unexpected costs. Members may submit requests for financial support to the Extended Health Benefits fund, Ways & Means fund, and the Support Fund. Receiving support from one union fund does not preclude members from receiving financial support from another fund. However, the funding requested should be for expenses not already covered by EHB or Ways & Means.
How do I apply?
To apply, fill out the Support Fund for Racialized Members form online, linked here. All information provided on the application form is strictly confidential, and details of applicants’ complaints will not be disclosed to the adjudicating members on the committee. You will be notified of the committee’s decision by email.
Members who have filed a complaint or grievance at any time during the 2024/2025 academic year are encouraged to apply for the Summer 2025 adjudication. The Summer 2025 deadline is 5PM June 30, 2025. Successful applicants will be informed of the committee’s decision by the end of the first week of August.
Appeals
When a member notifies the committee that they wish to appeal a decision on the application, the member’s application will be reviewed by one committee member, one designated executive member, and the Staff Representative Equity (ex-officio). To be considered, the appeal must be submitted within one month of the member’s receipt of the committee’s original decision.