I decided to become a steward because I believe that we need to hold our employer accountable to how they treat their staff.

As a union, PSAC fights for fair treatment of our members in the workplace, and yet in practice, as an employer, they often treat their own staff in a way that they would never stand for their members to be treated. I was tired of complaining about this hypocrisy and decided to get involved as a steward.

My work in the Representation section has positioned me well to act as a steward because I know the law and jurisprudence around the duty to accommodate, harassment, collective agreement interpretation, and discipline in the workplace.

It is very rewarding to be able to support my fellow members when they are looking for guidance and help with their issues in the workplace. I also appreciate the support I have gotten from our stewards and chief steward.

 I recently became a steward because I want to help make our workplace healthy and positive. I want to push for my fellow colleagues’ rights and ensure they’re respected.

The grievance case I have been working on as a steward has been very fulfilling and has allowed me to get to know a colleague from a different department whom I never would have gotten to know otherwise! I really appreciate being able to build a greater sense of community with my colleagues.

Since becoming a Unifor 2025 steward I have learned a great deal more about our collective agreement, our rights and the challenges we are up against as employees of PSAC.  

I feel good about supporting my individual co-workers and engaging in the larger struggle for justice.   As a steward I have to care, listen, think, collaborate and problem solve while being strategic.  I enjoy, more than I thought I would, the intellectual challenge and the emotional satisfaction of my work as a steward. 

The comradeship felt among the stewards is an added bonus!

My name is Yafa Jarrar and I am excited to serve as a Unifor 2025 steward.

As a Grievance and Adjudication Officer at the Representation and Legal Services section, my work includes representing and advising PSAC members as to their rights & responsibilities in their collective agreements.  I am excited to utilize my experience in the labour movement, my knowledge of Canadian labour law and arbitration, and my work in the Representation section to support my co-workers in our bargaining unit. I believe that everyone deserves to work in a healthy and safe environment, free of harassment and discrimination.