Stephanie Kerr, Vice President Region 3 COPE SEPB

02/27/2025

02/26/2025

Today is officially recognized as "pink shirt day", Let Kindness Grow. Stop bullying in the workplace.

02/26/2025

We are exciting to announce the Convention call to the 8th triennial National Convention of COPE-SEPB. Region 3 is hosting Convention at the Winnipeg Fairmont Hotel, June 4 (equity), 5 - 7, 2025. Convention packages were sent to your Locals February 4, 2025. We look forward to meeting new Members and seeing familiar Members in Winnipeg.

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12/19/2024

As we draw to a close in this election, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to everyone involved. This has been an incredible journey, showcasing the dedication and passion of so many individuals working toward the betterment of our union.

Now, more than ever, it’s essential that we focus on unity and collaboration. Regardless of the outcome, let’s commit to strengthening our bonds and working together to build a future that reflects our shared values and collective strength.

Here’s to a brighter, unified future for all of us. Thank you for your commitment and support throughout this election.

Posted by the Candidate. My opinions may not reflect the values and opinions of COPE.

12/15/2024

Lately, I’ve been hearing a lot of chatter from members asking, “How do we leave the union?”
But here’s the thing:
—the members own the union. It’s not some outside entity. It’s not “them”, It’s us. The union’s strength, direction, and success all depend on one thing: members stepping up, getting involved, and taking ownership.

It’s time to put the ‘U’ back in Union. If we want a union that truly works for us, we need to step up, speak out, and take an active role in shaping it. This isn’t about “them versus us.” This is about us together.

So, the real question isn’t how to leave the union—it’s how to make the union better. And the answer lies in you.

Are you ready to own it?

Posted by the Candidate. My opinions may not reflect the opinions of Cope.

12/09/2024

Every Member deserves representation and to be heard. I have always fought tirelessly for transparency, even when it meant holding myself accountable for mistakes.

The truth is, I have consistently fought for transparency.

Leadership is about service and accountability—not personal or political gain.

I stand by my commitment to ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in this Union. Members deserve better.

—Posted by the Candidate
The opinions posted may not reflect those of COPE.

12/08/2024

Lack of Transparency and Accountability in Leadership

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstone of effective and trustworthy leadership. It is deeply concerning that the union’s current actions and priorities do not reflect these values.

Unnecessary and Disproportionate Actions

Member-to-member trials are resource-intensive and should be reserved for cases where the accused member has failed to demonstrate accountability. In this instance, the Member in question has already shown accountability, rendering such measures unnecessary and disproportionate. Pursuing a trial under these circumstances is a misuse of union resources and contradicts the spirit of fairness and resolution.

Misallocation of Union Funds

The decision to hire a lawyer for this internal process is troubling. Union funds are intended to protect employees from employer actions, not to fuel internal disputes that undermine established procedures. Filing appeals and engaging legal resources in this context raises serious questions about the union’s priorities and financial stewardship.

Who benefits from these decisions, both politically and financially? Jason Hicks, an appointed Second Vice President, currently occupies the President’s chair with an honorarium nearing $70,000 per year. This raises concerns about transparency and leadership. Is this the kind of governance union members deserve? Is this the leadership we can trust?

Marginalization of Elected Members

Out of the current board, only two members were elected, while I, as an elected member, have been sidelined by an appointed board comprising Gus Anastasakis, Jennifer Adams, Carolyn Krahn, and Jason Hicks. For 15 months, the benefits of these actions have disproportionately favored this appointed leadership, leaving union members to question: Who has truly benefited during this period?

Alarming Conduct of Board Members

Union members from the largest bargaining unit are familiar with Karen Rainbow’s actions, which included spreading harmful rhetoric and sharing content on employer platforms. Similarly, Jeremy Koskie, Carolyn Krahn, and a PC member from Calgary have followed the same harmful path. These actions are not only unethical but also divisive, undermining the unity and purpose of the union.

Failure to Address Complaints

The current board has consistently sidelined complaints against them regarding their treatment of members and failure to adhere to the Constitution. This deliberate inaction speaks volumes about their commitment to accountability and their desire to conceal the truth from union members.

Call to Action

Union members deserve better. Leadership should exemplify integrity, transparency, and a commitment to the collective good. The actions of the current board suggest otherwise. It’s time to question the motivations behind these decisions and demand accountability from those in power.

As members, let’s unite to ensure that our union is led by individuals who prioritize the needs and rights of its members over personal or political gains. We must hold our leadership accountable and advocate for a return to the principles that define our union: fairness, integrity, and transparency.

Posted by the Candidate.
My options may not be the opinion of Cope.

12/06/2024

It has come to my attention that my opponent has been misrepresenting their position in their campaign materials. Specifically, they are claiming to be a Vice President for Region 3, which is not accurate. Let me explain why this claim is misleading:

At the National convention there were some important changes to ensure we have gender diversity at the table.

Article 7.2.1 As a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion each Regions Vice President’s shall include:
-at least one person who is not a Cis man
-at least one person who identifies as one of the following equity seeking groups:
First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Women, Radicalized person, two spirit, le***an, gay, bisexual, transgender, q***r, intersexual, people living with a disability, or young workers
A region will be deemed to have met the above criteria if one of their Vice Presidents meets both criteria.

In accordance with the Constitution, we have two elected Vice Presidents, Stephanie Kerr and Preston Smoke. We are here to support the Members and if you have any questions please reach out.

I believe it is important for candidates to be transparent and truthful with the members they wish to represent. Misrepresenting one’s qualifications or roles undermines the trust and integrity that should be central to this election process.

If you have any questions or would like further clarification, I am happy to provide additional information.
Posted by the Candidate(s)

12/01/2024

Let’s set the record straight: In a step taken, in good faith to maintain transparency and fairness, I voluntarily took a leave of absence—a decision I initially communicated as lasting two weeks. In November 2023, I rescinded that leave.
However, as of November 28, 2024, over 14 months have passed, and I am still being denied the ability to fulfill my elected role.
The term "locked out" reflects the current reality: I am being unreasonably excluded from carrying out my duties, even though the trial panel determined I made an error—specifically, a mistake—not an act of misconduct. While I may have erred, this prolonged exclusion is both unreasonable and contrary to the principles of fairness and the fundamentals of our Union.
Importantly, there has been a conclusion: I was exonerated from the charges that prompted my initial leave. Throughout this process, I have acted with integrity and remained steadfast in my commitment to fairness and justice—not just for myself, but for the entire membership. It is time to uphold the values our union stands for: honesty, justice, and accountability.
Posted by the Candidate. My personal views may not reflect the views of COPE.

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11/29/2024

It’s great to see the “Unity Slate” focusing on teamwork and collaboration. After all, a strong union thrives on genuine unity, transparency, and respect for the rules that guide us. That said, it’s important to remember that unity isn’t just about coming together—it’s about coming together in a way that honors the principles and guidelines we all agreed to uphold.

Adhering to internal procedures and the constitution isn’t a burden; it’s the foundation of trust and fairness within our union. By following these frameworks, we ensure that every decision and action reflects the will of the membership and protects the integrity of our collective voice.

Let’s strive for a future where our unity is grounded in both collaboration and accountability. That’s the kind of leadership we can all stand behind, together.

Posted by the candidate(s), this may not reflect the view or views of COPE Local 397.

11/23/2024

This past week,I had the privilege of attending the 7th Triennial Convention of SEPB-Quebec as one of two Vice Presidents representing Region 3, which includes Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, the territories, and Nunavut. Although my fellow Vice President, Preston Smoke, was unable to attend and sent his regrets, I’m pleased to provide an update for our members.
Our colleagues in Quebec warmly welcomed all attendees and ensured inclusivity by providing translation devices, allowing everyone to actively participate in the discussions.
The convention theme centered on the concept of Human in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is no longer just a tool to enhance our work—it is reshaping workplaces and, in some cases, replacing roles entirely. For unions, this transformation compels us to reevaluate our practices to better serve and protect our members.
Guest speakers Xavier Parent-Rocheleau and Vincent Pasquier offered insightful presentations on AI in the workplace. Pasquier’s research explores how technology is revolutionizing work, labor relations, and trade unionism, highlighting the opportunities and challenges unions face as these changes unfold.
The reports presented by various committees were both impressive and engaging. Some highlights include:
• Education Committee: Their innovative member engagement strategies incorporated creative elements like Mario and Pac-Man.
• Women’s Committee: Applause for their impactful work on fundraising, education, policy advocacy, lobbying, and community support.
• Environment Committee: SEPB-Quebec is leading the way by eliminating per diems for members using fuel-based vehicles for union travel, promoting carbon footprint reduction. The memorable sight of delegates jogging, cycling, and walking through the convention hall underscored their commitment to sustainability.
National President Annette Toth also addressed the delegates, delivering a poignant message on the profound impact AI has already had on the claims world, which resonated deeply with many attendees.
As a member of COPE 397, I found the experience particularly educational since we do not hold triennial conventions. The SEPB-Quebec convention provided an invaluable opportunity for the Executive Board and committees to report back to delegates, offer education sessions, review by-laws, and pass resolutions ensuring governance aligns with the needs of the 11 locals they represent. It also served as a platform to elect representatives for the next three years.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to SEPB-Quebec for inviting the Region 3 Vice Presidents to participate in this enriching experience.
This report may not reflect the views or opinions of COPE 397.

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11/22/2024

This election has been anything but typical. With Canada Post workers on strike—fighting for fair treatment after having their benefits slashed—our team made a conscious decision: we stand in solidarity with them and won’t use other carriers to distribute our campaign materials.

This choice hasn’t come without challenges. Over the past week, I’ve personally logged hundreds of kilometers delivering posters and materials directly to members, ensuring everyone stays informed and engaged.

This campaign isn’t just about words; it’s about standing firm in our values and supporting workers in their fight for fairness. Together, we make a difference.

Posted by the Candidate(s), this opinion may not be the opinion of Cope 397.