CUPE Local 1281 is a proud local of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). CUPE democratically represents over 500,000 workers from across the country. The union collectively speaks for workers on issues like health care and workers' rights to organise. At the same time, CUPE locals are largely autonomous, with the ability to hold their own positions and pursue local objectives.
As a composite local that represents workers in geographically disparate workplaces, the structure of CUPE 1281 is somewhat unique. Our structure consists of sub-locals with sub-local stewards, steward's council, convention, and an executive. In addition to the outline provided below it is important to review the policy documents in the Resources and Documents section to give the whole picture.
Sub-locals and sub-local stewards
The sub-locals consist of our bargaining groups. For example, the workers at the various Ontario Public Interest Research Groups (OPIRGs). To manage day to day operations at this level, each sub-local regularly elects a steward who holds regular meetings with the members. The sub-local steward represents and advocates for the workers of the sub-local to the management.
Stewards Council
The sub-local stewards participate in a body called Stewards' Council. The Council meets about 4 times a year to make decisions about matters that affect our local as a whole. It is also a great opportunity for the sub-local stewards to meet and build on each other's experiences. When possible, the executive arranges for training to take place at the Stewards Council meetings.
Convention
Representatives from all the sub-locals meet once per year at the local convention. Convention is the highest decision making body in CUPE 1281. Convention is responsible for important functions including passing the budget and electing the executive.
The Executive
The executive is a volunteer group consisting of a President, Vice-President, Secretary-Treasurer, Recording Secretary, Communications Officer, and two Chief stewards. The executive meets about once a month and is responsible for the day to day operation of CUPE 1281.
Information about receiving minutes from Stewards Council, Convention and the Executive are available in the Resources & Documents section.