Briefs and Reports

The steps to take to ensure equity within the association

Several collective agreements require their institution to collect demographic information about the workforce. Collective agreements can specify that data should be collected through a self-identification process, how frequently this should occur, and specify the survey population and equity-seeking groups.

Canadian unions have made a significant contribution to the fight for equity and human rights using the unique tools in their toolbox: bargaining, grievance arbitration and political action.

Realizing equity is both an individual and a collective responsibility. Academic staff associations must take a leadership role.

A broad approach that should anchor any campaign to get members on board with equity issues is to focus on actions of “calling in” rather than “calling out”. Activist organizations such as unions regularly “call out” oppressive and illegitimate actions; through public campaigns and formal actions such as grievances. This is a necessary tool to challenge oppression.