This coming week, many CUPE 3903 members will face the difficult situation of having to return to in-person teaching without a clear, robust safety plan from the administration. As some YUFA members and departments explore their rights to refuse unsafe working conditions and to choose the mode of delivery of their courses, senior administrators have threatened disciplinary action against them and against 3903 members who do not comply. The situation has understandably created a lot of stress and confusion for our members.
CUPE 3903 seeks to re-assert and inform members about their rights to seek accommodations and to refuse unsafe working conditions, as well as the union’s duty to protect members who face disciplinary action.
If the department or the university administration attempts to discipline you, suspend you or cancel your appointment, you have a right to representation from your union and are protected by Article 8 of the collective agreement.
Please contact staff or one of the members of the executive to let them know what you are experiencing. Support can take the form of anything from sitting in on meetings with you to challenging the discipline, suspension, or cancelled appointment. If we are able to challenge the disciplinary measure, the process will proceed much like a grievance, the process for which you can see here.
The union exists to protect and support our members. We know that rank and file are making difficult decisions about the health and safety of themselves, their loved ones, their family and their students. Your union has your back.