Dear members,
The CUPE Local 391 executive would like to address the recent disheartening and distressing Instagram post made by and involving numerous exempt staff at Vancouver Public Library. While the post was deleted after the Union brought it to Christina de Castell’s attention, it continues to have significant impacts on the safety, health and well-being of our members.
We acknowledge the gravity and impact of this situation for all our members, but in particular for our Indigenous and racialized members. Actively seeking and listening to the truth about Canada’s colonialism and Indigenous genocide is central to CUPE Local 391’s work towards reconciliation. We hope that our employer shares those principles, as they have previously stated, although our faith in their commitment to reconciliation has been deeply shaken by this event and their subsequent inaction.
We want members to know that we are in active discussions both internally at CUPE Local 391 and with the Employer to identify the best ways to address this situation and move forward. The safety and well-being of all our members in their workplaces and as Vancouver Public Library employees has always been, and continues to be, a priority for our Local.
We recognize the impact this event may have had on our mental health and well-being, and want to share some resources available to offer support during this time. In addition, the Local is always accessible to all members; we encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.
In Solidarity and support,
The Executive Committee
CUPE Local 391
Vancouver, Gibsons, and Sechelt Public Library Workers
Resources and Contact info:
Indian Residential School Survivors Society Crisis Line
Phone: 1-800-721-0066
Online: Indian Residential School Survivors’ Society (irsss.ca)
Homewood Health Employee and Family Assistance Program available to all VPL employees
Phone (24 hours) 1-800-663-1142
Online: https://homeweb.ca/
WorkSafeBC Crisis Support Line
Phone (24 hours): 1-800-624-2928
You don’t need a WorkSafeBC claim to call for help.
CUPE Local 391 Contact:
email: info@cupe391.ca
Phone: 604-322-4879