Daily Bulletin #2, August 26

Have an idea for something to cover? Let us know at dfa.daily.bulletin@gmail.com.

The DFA Will Weather this Storm!

While Monday marked our fourth day of walking the line, it also marked the beginning of our second work week locked out by our employer. As predicted, it was also our first day in the rain! We’re all very happy to see the province get a soaking but, as it turns out, a lot of us were also happy to show the strength of our resolve in the weather!While the office tried to call people in when the rain became especially heavy, some members wiped the rain off and said “Hell no! We won’t go!” and stayed on the line. One of our friendly neighbourhood Bulletin editors drove by the line during the rush-hour tempest and was pleased to hear the sound of their horn drowned out by all of the others! 

Picket Line News and Updates

A few points that our intrepid Job Action office wants us to pass on that we hope will reassure everyone and gear them up for the week!

• An email should be coming today with reminders of the details on the pay rates and schedule. A reminder that if you have any trouble with pay once it’s gone out, to please contact the amazing Kristin Hearn in the DFA office: kristin.hearn@dal.ca. Remember, even though we only picket 5 days a week, we get paid for 7!
• We’ve also had inquiries from people on our virtual duties campaign: thank you for your patience! We are getting things up and running, and we will be back in touch soon. In the meantime, you will be paid like everyone else, not to worry!
• There is a Lost and Found in the SUB for Halifax picketers.
• Last but the opposite of least: a Call for Shout-Outs! We received this great idea from member Sarah Jane Dooley: a “Shout Out Series!” If you know someone on the picket line who’s been keeping spirits high, spreading positivity, or showing up with extra heart, then send us a quick shout-out for the newsletter. Let’s celebrate the folks who make this movement stronger every day!

Solidarity and Support

Today’s “solidarity and support” comes from parents of the students who are currently arriving to Dalhousie, only to find they have no idea when their term will start. This time of year is usually busy for all the members of our union, but without even trying we often share in the sheer excitement of students on their arrival at campus.

This year feels different because of the President’s decision to lock us out and the Board’s refusal to bargain. The parents of those students recognize this fact, as you can see in the letter that has been sent to President Brooks from parents in Halifax, elsewhere in Nova Scotia, Ontario, and maybe further.

Here’s the form letter. Know a Dalhousie parent who might appreciate it? Feel free to share. 

“As parents of an incoming [insert Faculty or program] student, we have been watching the contract dispute between Dal and the DFA unfold.

”I understand we do not have all of the background, financial details or information that the board does, but as a tuition payer expecting to pay MANY thousands of dollars over the next several years, we respectfully request that the board return to negotiations and/or agree to arbitration with DFA as soon as possible. 

“It is unfair to use current and future students, as well as research grants and projects, as pawns in this chess game. Paying thousands of dollars per semester is stressful enough without the uncertainty of knowing if there will be classes to attend, credits to achieve, or if schedules will be upended and study breaks nullified.

”PLEASE return to talks with the DFA, now, so a contract can be negotiated before the start of the school year.”

Upcoming events

Stay tuned for details about Friday’s rally event: we don’t want to spill the beans before things are set, but we’re trying to cook something up!

In our previous issue, we mentioned the Solidarity Hub in Halifax at the SUB, and we wanted to pass on details from our wonderful counsellor colleagues:

DFA Job Action Solidarity Hub

We know that recent events may be bringing up a range of emotions for our DFA members. In this time of uncertainty, the DFA is setting up a Job Action Solidarity Hub to support one another through collective care and radical rest.

Location: Strike Headquarters, Student Union Building (SUB), Room 302
Hours: Open daily during job action from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM

This space is designed to be a welcoming, supportive environment where members can:

• Gather information regarding mental health resources that are available for DFA members
• Learn strategies to prevent burnout during this challenging period
• Connect with colleagues in a spirit of solidarity
• Share experiences and emotions around the current situation
• Enjoy refreshments before or after picket duty
• Leave and receive uplifting messages on our anonymous “collective care” message board.

Wellness activities will be offered regularly. 

Special guests: Risser and Luna, DFA’s own therapy dogs will be stopping by now and then for some much-needed four-legged furry support!
All DFA members are warmly welcome.

Solidarity Hub Schedule (Week of August 25)

We will have the following suggested events this week. Please join us for some light refreshments and collective care! We have “themes” but you are always welcome to inquire about topics of interest to you. We are here to support each other! 

• TUESDAY: Drop In Cookie Decorating! Theme of the day will be discussing the “new normal” and creating a routine during the strike.
• WEDNESDAY: Luna the Therapy Dog! Theme of the day will be talking about burnout and self care.
• THURSDAY: Risser the Therapy Dog! Theme of the day will be a discussion around coping during these stressful times.
• FRIDAY: Drop in tea/coffee before rally. Discussion based on what is brought up by attendees (how to work through emotions, processing experiences, needs, etc).