Challenge Discrimination
As organised representatives of workers, Trade Unions have a primary responsibility to challenge the culture of racism and racist assumptions in the workplace. Challenging racism and discrimination is no easy task. for a union rep. It requires confidence and gaining wider support from members and employers.
Ways in which this can be achieved are:
Use Communication Networks
Use your communication network to talk to members and potential members to:
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find out about local issues they may be concerned about
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circulate info about special branch meetings about new legislation
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ask people if they want to become involved in the campaign/meeting/event
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involve self-organised groups in promoting union policies/campaigns
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use people of who can speak other languages to talk to different groups of workers
Branch meetings
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make sure union meetings take place in appropriate venues and at times which are convenient to all
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members who work part-time, shifts, etc. are included
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consider inviting a speaker to lead the discussion on the new legislation
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think about 'open' meetings and invite non members
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ensure any homophobic, anti-religious, or racist comments are challenged and everyone is aware of their responsibilities as union members and under the law
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avoid using jargon
Publicity, information and education
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include information about the new rights in your regular newsletter
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produce specific recruitment literature around the new rights
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use
posters to publicise meetings, new rights, etc.
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organise discussion groups
Working with management
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review policies and procedures in the light of the new regulations
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seek to gain better than the legal minimum
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improve diversity on negotiating committee
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take up cases of discrimination within the workplace
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jointly organise training on the new rights and policies
Other Sites