February, 2007 UNITE HERE Local 40 is back! The annual Canadian Labour Congress Winter School held at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa saw the return of Local 40 this year with a week long Leadership Training class for Local 40 activists. Local 40 president Jim Pearson, together with the International Union, arranged for the specialized activist training program to take place at the Winter School. Secretary-Treasurer Shelly Ervin organized the education and training components and secured Union Representative Jean Poulton as a co-facilitator for the 15 union members who participated from across the province. The week long course focused on organizing techniques, a “how-to” on establishing workplace committees and leadership skills. Jim Pearson, union president, spoke with the class about the importance of union activism and its’ overall effect on workers’ everyday lives. “We hope by the end of this week we can help add to your toolbox of resources for the roles you play in your workplace as co-workers and, for some of you, as Shop Stewards,” said Pearson. Co-instructor Sister Jean Poulton, long time union rep and former worker at the Harrison Hot Springs hotel, said, “It was a very busy week. Our members worked very hard and had a packed schedule with classes during the day and organized events in the evening. It was a good week of learning.” UNITE HERE Organizer Kristen Reeg from Local 11 in Los Angeles taught a day-long session on organizing that included an interactive demonstration of a workplace rally. Guest speaker Nick Worhaug, UNITE HERE Canada co-director also addressed the union members. A visit from Member of Parliament Peter Julian from Burnaby-New Westminster gave the students an opportunity to ask questions about political action and the role the MP plays in Canada. Julian said, “Activism, whether it be labour activism or political activism, can be an important skill to learn as it has the effect of making positive changes in our lives.” The union hopes to continue this very worthwhile course and planning is underway for next year’s program. | 
