Dear HSA Region 7 members,

I have worked for the FVCDC since 2015. After serving as a general steward for 4 years and Assistant Lead Steward for 1 year, where I’ve had the opportunity and privilege of working closely with my peers to advocate for our members and bring forward concerns at HSA events and conferences, I was recently elected as our chapter’s Lead Steward. I am also a Member at Large and will serve on the Resolutions Committee for the first time at the upcoming 2023 Convention. 

As a Young Workers and BIPOC member, I have quickly learned the value of and necessity to be an active member of our Union and to use my voice to represent our richly diverse population of members.

If elected, I hope to help meet the needs of our members by advocating for wages that more adequately meet cost of living, equity in hiring practices, better working conditions, increase in educational and professional development opportunities, and for equality and fairness in member benefits in order to avoid marginalization of any populations. I will also offer my voice in advocating for populations that may feel underrepresented, including but not limited to BIPOC members, LGBTQIA+ members, young workers, and members over the age of 65.

I intend to meet with and engage in meaningful conversation with HSA members to listen to and come to a deeper understanding of what is important to you; I am here to hear your story and fight for what will help you as a valued member of the HSA. I aim to offer transparency and honesty and will work to earn the trust and support as an elected representative of Region 7 members. 

In Solidarity,
Sarah Kooner
Infant and Child Development Consultant (FVCDC)
sarahkooner@gmail.com

Health Science Association Region 7 Members,

My father was a Union man. He was a member of the IBEW for over five decades. As a youngster, while considering my career path and employment possibilities, my father always said, “Get a Union Job!” I’ve never regretted taking my father’s good advice, and I’ve been a member of the HSA for over 20 years, and it has served me well. A work-related injury created a need for my Union Labour Relations Officer to do battle for me that resulted in a just and fair outcome. I was, and am still, truly grateful for the support that I received.

My father is foremost in my mind, as sadly, he recently passed away. And while I supported him during this part of his journey, I saw first hand the state of the Healthcare System. Long term care staff, Hospital Staff, Social Workers, and everyone in between, all working diligently and faithfully under the strain of a healthcare system in dire need. I am grateful for the care and commitment the healthcare workers provided to my folks.

As a Family Services Worker, I know too, firsthand, the strain of crushing workloads and limited resources. I hold the belief that if you are going to complain about something, it warrants attention and action; your Union is only as good as its members. And our members rock! Such committed and hardworking people.

My active contribution to our HSA, includes: being a Lead Steward, a member of the Political Action Committee, Women’s Committee, Education Committee, and other various volunteer positions with the HSA. I am currently on the Resolution Committee. I am passionate about Human Rights and I will do my due diligence to serve the Region 7 members.

Sincerely,
Sherry Lewis
sherrylee.lewis@gmail.com
website: sherrylewis.ca (available Jan. 30)