My name is Kate Holowatiuk. I am a Letter Carrier in Victoria and the 2nd VP of Local 850.
I am honoured to be working as the Pacific Campaign Coordinator for the Delivering Community Power campaign. The campaign has been relaunched with 9 Coordinators representing 8 Regions. ………….To date, tens of thousands of people from coast to coast to coast have shown support for the proposals that make up Delivering Community Power. Thousands of municipalities, labour allies and community groups have signed letters and passed resolutions of support. They have endorsed the following vision for a post- carbon, public postal service.
* Charging stations for electric vehicles at post offices
* Transitioning the delivery fleet to renewable energy and retrofitting buildings
* Public postal banking, especially for underserved rural and Indigenous communities
* Check-in services for seniors and people with limited mobility
* Expansion of broadband service; creating digital access and community hubs
The writing is on the wall: Postal Workers are integral to the communities in which we work.
It now seems likely that a Federal election will be called in 2021. Climate action promises will appear in many speeches and on every platform. It is up to us, not just as CUPW members but as inhabitants of a warming world to rally ourselves, our labour allies, our community groups and our friends and families. We must send a strong message and gain support by staying informed, spreading the word and voting when the time comes.
Both Urban and Rural Collective Agreements are set to expire in less than a year. We must make it clear that along with improvements to our working life, we also demand that Canada Post commit to reducing its environmental impact.
The successes of past campaigns such as “Save Canada Post” and “Delivering Community Power” have been largely due to volunteers. The pandemic has created some challenges to getting the word out to various allies so there will be a need for creativity. While it would be amazing to have past volunteers (thank you!) back on board, no experience is necessary as there will be virtual training available to become a Delivering Community Power champion.
Right now, I have a few “asks” of each Local in the Region:
Invite me to do a short presentation at an upcoming General Membership Meeting
Identify people who may be interested in being an advocate for the
Delivering Community Power campaign. The goal is one person per local but more will certainly be welcome.
Please reach out to me at [email protected] with questions or comments
In Solidarity,
Kate Holowatiuk