Union membership creates learning opportunities

Name:  Sherry Ogasawara

Occupation: Population Health Dietitian

Union: BCGEU

Sherry Ogasawara, a BCGEU member in Prince George, works as a Population Health Dietitian and has been a member of the BCGEU for 24 years. Ogasawara was recently elected as the new chair of the Health Services Component of BCGEU.

When asked what inspired Ogasawara to become active with the union, her reply echoes similar reasons of why many choose to get involved in their union. “Initially it was a result of my own personal/professional experience navigating through a complex labour-management issue with the full support of the BCGEU, and knowing that potentially I could lend support and help others in similar circumstances given what I had been through myself,” she says.

As for Ogasawara’s goals in her new role, she says that one of her primary objectives is to support new union members with the education and tools they need to be successful in their roles. In fact, one of her favourite parts about her involvement in the union is the ability to work with members.

“I always learn from the members. While I sometimes come equipped with a few answers and may be able to connect them to helpful resources, invariably, there is always a gemstone in the takeaway of any interaction where I feel enlightened in some way.”

Looking at the broad picture of the labour movement in health care, Ogasawara stresses the importance of BCGEU continuing to campaign and advocate for health care workers.

“Health care and the health care delivery system is ever-changing and the results of these shifts have a direct impact on BCGEU members in this sector,” she says.

Ogasawara adds that BCGEU campaigns to educate and its advocacy work at all levels is important to further the fight against privatization of health care, raiding by other unions, and legislative changes that impact frontline service delivery.

“I am looking forward to connecting and working with our members in meeting the upcoming challenges that are ahead for all of us who work in health care.”

For information about how you can make your workplace with a union contract, call 604-882-0111 or visit www.bcgeu.ca