Under the theme “Strong. Proud. Independent.,” the Canada Employment and Immigration Union’s 2025 National Women’s Conference kicked off on May 25 with a powerful performance by the Montreal Steppers, setting the right energy to get the conference going.

The conference was called to order by Lynda MacLellan, National Vice-President for Women’s Priorities West, and Kelly Blackwood, Acting National Vice-President for Women’s Priorities Est.

Participants were welcomed to Montreal, May 26-27, by Elder Geraldine Standup, a Kanien:keha'ka Elder (Mohawk), Bear Clan, and Traditional Healer.

CEIU National President, Rubina Boucher, welcomed participants and stressed the importance of intersectionality, the need to celebrate women leaders, and encouraged everyone to consider who is still missing from these spaces.

Participants were introduced to the theme by Fedna Mayrand, Quebec representative to the National Women’s Committee, and received a video welcome from Magali Picard, President of the FTQ.

PSAC National President and bargaining updates

The PSAC National President, Sharon DeSousa, attended the conference and spoke to the current situation for women in the workplace and the union, particularly considering the recent federal election.

DeSousa emphasized the need for us to work together as women and stand up for our rights.

A presentation on women’s priorities and bargaining demands followed, with the three (3) CEIU members of the PA Bargaining Team discussing why diverse women’s voices are so important to the bargaining process.

Participants also heard from Monthly Dignity, a non-profit organization working to address the causes and consequences of period poverty. Participants were encouraged to donate products to Monthly Dignity throughout the conference.

Women’s health and regional caucuses

In the afternoon of the first day, participants divided into their regional caucuses to discuss priorities and plans.

Participants also took part in a training on Women’s Health in the Workplace. The training was developed by PSAC and delivered by CEIU’s Membership Engagement Officers to look at common women’s health issues and how the employer and union can provide support.

Guest speaker Julie Marcoux

The second day of the conference started with a guest speaker, Julie Marcoux.

Julie is a journalist and news anchor in Montreal. She shared stories from her life and career that spoke to the theme “Strong. Proud. Independent.”

Resolutions and adjournment

The delegates debated and voted on adopting four (4) resolutions. All four were adopted and will now be brought to the CEIU National Convention in September 2026 for debate.

The conference provided members the chance to connect with each other and advance women’s priorities within the workplace and the union.

The conference was closed by Elder Geraldine Standup.