CUPE NS 2025 Convention
Delegate Report
Wenceslao Amezcua | June, 2025
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to attend the CUPE NS 2025 Convention—a gathering that brought together union members from across the province to discuss key issues, share strategies, and shape the future of our collective work.
It was my first time attending a convention of this scale, and the experience was both eye-opening and energizing. From learning about union governance and bylaws to connecting with delegates from other locals, the convention gave me valuable insights and practical tools that I’m sure will be useful in my role as an active member of our union unit.
What follows is a reflection on some of the key takeaways and meaningful moments from my time at the event.
- Deep Learning in Governance, Laws & Bylaws
Even when I wasn’t actively speaking on the floor, I absorbed a wealth of procedural and legal knowledge.
- I learned how constitutional amendments are debated and passed—from both logistical and legal perspectives.
- I also gained a clearer understanding of how resolutions—like anti-privatization or land acknowledgements—are introduced, debated, and ultimately woven into the union’s bylaws and future campaigns.
- Overall, the event gave me the confidence to bring that knowledge back to our unit, helping us strengthen our understanding of union law and empowering our members.
- Learning from Other Locals’ Experiences
Talking with delegates from education, healthcare, and municipal sectors revealed both the challenges and successes they’ve faced:
- Education locals, for example, shared their struggles around securing safety protocols and standardizing wages at the provincial bargaining table.
- Various committees highlighted creative tools—like Motion Meetings—to improve communication and voting processes. These are ideas I’m excited to bring back and suggest for our own unit.
- These conversations gave me practical insights into broader labour strategies and legislative frameworks affecting workers across the province.
- Supporting My Own Unit
By attending and contributing—even quietly—I ensured our unit was represented: ● I supported resolutions that aligned with our concerns.
- I backed motions from other locals that helped amplify our collective voice.
- I built our presence by being visible, engaged, and active—strengthening our reputation within CUPE NS and CUPE National.
- I also supported and campaigned for Christine Saulniere. Although she didn’t achieve the result we hoped for, we showed unity and put forward an impressive team effort—one I hope we can build on in the future.
This experience helped reinforce that our unit is serious, active, and ready to collaborate in broader coalitions.
- The Power of Networking
The convention was incredibly valuable for networking.
- I met CUPE staff, regional VPs, and other local leaders—many of whom were pleasantly surprised and appreciative that our unit was represented.
- I connected with over 15 peers from different sectors and joined ongoing initiatives like mailing lists and online forums.
- One of the most meaningful connections, though, was with people inside our own unit. I had the chance to spend time, talk, and share moments with members of 3912 I hadn’t really connected with before.
Those internal and external connections were just as impactful and valuable to me.
In conclusion, attending the CUPE NS 2025 Convention was a key experience for me—not just in representing our unit, but in gaining the knowledge, tools, and relationships that will support us well beyond the event. I observed, listened, learned, and supported initiatives that will strengthen workers across Nova Scotia.
The convention renewed my commitment to growing our unit’s efforts, learning from others, and taking coordinated action—both locally and provincially—to protect and advance our members’ rights. This convention wasn’t just an event—it was an experience of growth, solidarity, and strategic preparation.