Advocating for Windsor workers

 

By Jillian Toman

Stomach in knots. Feeling stuck. Not knowing where to turn…you’re not alone! That is what Windsor Workers’ Education Centre (WWEC) wants you to know, and help is available.

WWEC is a centre designed for non-union workers to receive networking support and information about the Employment Standards Act. The non-profit runs as a community connection hub that calls for workers’ movement.

Paul Chislett, board president of WWEC said he provides support to more than half a dozen new clients per month. Recently he has seen an increase in female immigrants being funneled into manufacturing or packaging positions.

“There is an overall sense that if you are in Canada, things are going to be fair and you’re going to be well-treated. When they get into the workforce it’s not that way,” said Chislett.

WWEC offers advocacy support and serves as a workers’ resource through educational workshops.

“A lot of your well-being is centered on just your mental state at work,” said Chislett. He adds, the need is to develop a network of co-workers that learn to look out for each other.

Lee-Ann Ondic, a former bartender says she left her job of more than eight years because of what she says was bullying in the workplace.

“I worked there a long time and never had problems until the new manager…”she said.

“Everyone was scared to put in a complaint to the labour board…they didn’t want to lose their job,” said Ondic.

Chislett notes, “Often by the time people come here they’ve been through the wringer and had nowhere they felt they could turn to. This is a place where they can find support,” he said.

He suggests, the first steps a worker should take is to learn their rights. “If you’re in a workplace where you think if you speak-out you’re going to get into trouble, we offer strategies to help you though that,” said Chislett.

Chislett suggested workers can navigate their workplace by simply knowing who management is.

WWEC offers information about the Employment Standards Act, how to file an employee complaint, and exercising employees rights.

Chislett emphasizes, WWEC is on the worker’s side.