Lauren McKenzie
Once again, the CUPE NS Women’s Conference on March 6 – 7 turned out to be one of my favorite union gatherings of the year. The event had fascinating speakers, fun activities and created opportunities for us women in the labour movement to connect. This conference is
planned by the CUPE NS Women’s Committee and they take a holistic approach by making time for attendees to be inspired and to rest. The conference began with speeches from key CUPE NS and national staff and a video message from National Secretary Treasurer Candace Rennick – a favorite around here as she came to visit our MSVU and SMU strikes in the fall (with a big cheque for the local). We heard of a reading of the poem ‘Bread and Roses’ and got great gift bags to close the afternoon. That night was a reception with an amazing taco bar and drumming lesson – I had to miss this because of other responsibilities.
The next day, the conference heard from speakers including 4 time Olympic kayaker and local, Karen Furneaux. She spoke about her incredible career as an athlete and then the turn her life took in 2023 when she was hospitalized and diagnosed with bi-polar II disorder. Karen talked about the ‘resilience framework’. I appreciated her perspective on how having routines helped her to heal and I could relate to that. When things get really stressful with the local, I lean into my routines – going for a walk, making a smoothie, calling a sister friend…
She was so open and honest about her challenges and has written a book about her experiences. Holly and Jenna bought me a copy and Karen signed it: “To Lauren – you are the gold within” and I was so touched. Karen talked about how she had to tap into that winning spirit when she pulled up to every start line.
I had a chance to connect with my incredible 3912 sisters and women from across our province who are incredible leaders, activists, care givers, mothers, friends, partners, workers and so so much more.