Introduction Wapasu Members Voice
I have been a camp worker in Northern Alberta for nearly 13 years. Once upon a time, the camp workers were so numerous that it was impossible not to pay attention to us. Economic down-turns, wild fires and now the effects of Covid-19 on Oilsands business have left our numbers dwindling. No longer can we command attention by sheer numbers. Now the spot light seems to be on other members.
Members who go home every night. Members who work in completely different conditions. Members who cannot relate to us or our situation. Yet they are our brothers and sisters and we wish them all the best. We know that they deserve the attention being showered on them and we are encouraged to see our union focusing on their comfort and their safety. Every win for our brothers and sisters is a win for us.
That being said, I am hard pressed to find member engagement that is specifically geared towards us camp workers. No fun activities posted on the main union page spotlighting us. No relevant activities or announcements short of an “honorable mention” in regards to hazard pay. And what can we do about it?
Sometimes, we just have to do for ourselves. This space is ours. the wapasu camp ufcw members. It is not officially affiliated with UFCW 401. Although, I have and will provide links to the Main UFCW 401 page to help us stay informed about generalized union messages and programs that may apply to us. This is our place to post events, activities, news and inspirational stories that specifically apply to us as Camp Workers.