Convention Overview
CUPE 3903 sent multiple delegates to the CUPE Ontario Convention (May 27 – 30, Toronto). While many supported resolutions passed, the convention was heavily dominated by elections and marked by serious procedural and democratic shortcomings.
Ahead of the convention, the Ontario University Workers Coordinating Committee (OUWCC) met to prioritize university-sector resolutions. Delegates participated in a voting process to identify key priorities for university-sector resolutions which could have been more transparently executed; the caucus is open to feedback on this matter. CUPE 3903 co-sponsored a resolution with Locals 2626 and 4772 addressing the US–Israeli war on Iran and Canada’s role, intended to condemn the devastating US–Israeli war on Iran and denounce the Canadian government’s support for actions that violate international law, escalate global instability, and endanger civilian lives and infrastructure.
The caucus also provided valuable sector updates, including a report on post-secondary funding developments from CUPE national senior researcher Abram Lutes, and a presentation from CUPE 3902 (UofT) on emerging strategies to address the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in university workplaces through collaborative, cross-union discussions. Opportunities were identified for improving future processes and strengthening participation.
Elections Over Participatory Democracy
The convention itself was dominated by elections, leaving limited time for meaningful debate. While most resolutions that reached the floor passed, structural issues remain. Resolutions not heard due to time constraints are decided by the executive, and an attempt to increase accountability through a constitutional amendment was never brought forward.
Barriers to Participation
Multiple practices actively limited delegate participation. The practice of “tiling” doors during voting prevented members from entering or exiting, effectively disenfranchising some delegates, especially those with accessibility needs who take longer than others to attend to their self-care needs between votes. Voting access was restricted to the main ballroom, forcing unnecessary movement, and the online stream was non-functional.
Organizing Despite Constraints
Delegates pushed back where possible, raising procedural concerns and advancing motions to improve fairness in debate time. The convention still provided opportunities to connect across sectors and share struggles.
Looking Ahead
Future efforts should focus on strengthening coordination among university workers and reclaiming convention time for meaningful political discussion. Replacing ceremonial speeches with sector-based organizing discussions would make better use of limited time and strengthen collective strategy.