Wenceslao Amezuca, MSVU Part-Time Faculty member
When I joined the Communications Committee, I did not know exactly what to expect. But very quickly it became a very positive experience for me. I met colleagues who really care about the union and the working conditions of part-time instructors. I’m not a strong activist in labour rights, but I care about issues that affect many of us, such as job security, low wages, and vulnerable working conditions. It felt good to work with people who share these concerns and are passionate about working in favour of all of us.
During the last year, our main work was to help prepare communication for our members. One of our important tasks was helping produce two newsletters that shared union news, updates, and information members should know about. We also had conversations about social media content, engagement strategies, and visual materials for communication. We discussed how to make our messages clearer and more accessible for members. Even small things, like the design of posters or infographics, can make a difference in how members receive information.
However, the biggest and most memorable moment of the year was the strikes in our Local. For me, it was an intense and unforgettable experience. There were also challenging and frustrating moments, but the process was extremely educational. I was learning by doing: writing updates, creating content, informing members, and helping share information during a very important moment for our union (not to mention the personal overexposure of being part of an ad campaign). I also had the opportunity to support the work of Katerina Allan, the very resilient MSVU Vice-President, and to see closely the leadership of our President, Lauren.
It was during the strike that I understood how important the Communications Committee can be. A strong and well-organized committee can help a lot in moments of crisis. It can prepare materials in advance, respond to unexpected situations, and reduce the stress that comes from not knowing what to do or who to contact for help.
For the future of the committee, I think it would be very useful to clearly define responsibilities. This can help avoid duplication of work and make communication more efficient. For example, it would help to know who is responsible for public communication, press releases, social media content, and who has the final word in approving what CUPE 3912 communicates publicly. Clear roles -or simply respect for the assigned roles– can help make the voice of our Local stronger, more organized, and more credible.
For me, being part of this committee has been a meaningful way to contribute to the union. When members are well informed, they feel more connected and more engaged. Good communication helps build the solidarity that we predicate among part-time instructors.
Of course, this past year, the committee could have been stronger. There were moments when we did not receive as much support as it needed (from inside and outside of the same committee). The challenges of the strike also moved different things, where the committee was not a priority. Even so, I believe we did our best to fulfill our mandate.
I am very grateful for the opportunity to be part of the committee and for everything I learned. I encourage other members to consider joining it. It is a meaningful way to support our union and to help keep our members informed, connected, and engaged.