Even after many years of instructing local union stewards, Lorrie Russell loves to see the flicker in participants’ eyes as they walk out of Stewards’ Training.
“It’s incredible to see the difference between when they walk in and when they walk out,” she said. “You can see the light bulb turning on. They are empowered because they attained knowledge – they are ready to go out and fight for themselves and their co-workers. They are ready to protect everyone in the workplace.”
This spring, Local 1006A trained nearly 200 stewards from across Ontario. The local union’s education and training program empowers activists with the knowledge and skills to help their co-workers.
“It means a lot to have the opportunity to educate stewards about something I truly believe in – the union,” said Lorrie, who takes time away from working at No Frills to teach fellow members.
Classes took place from April 8 to May 21 at the union office Training Centre.
“I want to recognize the exceptional work of our instructors, who continue to empower, educate and strengthen our steward base and our union through their efforts,” said President Wayne Hanley.
The local union scheduled eight different courses for the 2025 spring session, including The Steward Course: An Introduction, Understanding Human Rights and Handling Tough Issues.
“With training, our stewards learn information that they can use in their everyday lives and in their workplaces. I love being able to share the knowledge I have gained through instructing these courses,” said Lorrie. “Even after so many classes, there is always a new question that comes up with each group, as workplaces change and adapt through the years.”
Penny Patterson, a long-time instructor who works at a Your Independent Grocer, said being an instructor with the local union means a lot to her.
“I am proud and thankful for the opportunity to make a difference through education and training,” she said.
Penny still remembers attending her first training session in Toronto as a new steward 27 years ago.
“It opened up the world to me,” Penny said.
As a steward, she made lifelong friendships through the local union’s training courses and annual Stewards’ Conferences.
“Being with like-minded people, you have the opportunity to develop lifelong bonds,” Penny said. “The camaraderie and the bonds that you make when you do live training cannot be replaced. In these environments, it is easy to be yourself because you know you are going to be accepted no matter who you are.”
As an instructor, Penny said she keeps learning from the stories, ideas and experiences that other stewards share during the courses.
“We are all growing, learning and changing,” she said. “Everybody is a student of the world, who you are now isn’t who you were 20 years ago, 10 years ago, or even 5 years ago.”
President Hanley commended members for participating in the training.
“We are proud of our incredible stewards for their hard work and dedication to building fairer workplaces and to making life better for their fellow workers,” said Hanley. “Our dynamic training program provides our steward base with the skills, knowledge and tools to improve and protect our members at work. I want to thank our stewards for volunteering their time and energy to take part in this important training opportunity and for their tireless work on behalf of our membership every day.”
