Dear Members,
The Executive Committee has discussed the position title of “Chief Steward”. In keeping with our Indigenization incentives and initiatives, we agreed that the position title is no longer suitable for CUPE 4207 and has been changed to “Lead Steward”.
This title change is also reflected in the Lead Steward’s email address: leadunit1@cupe4207.org (any emails that are sent to the previous email address are automatically forwarded to the Lead Steward).
We are very aware of the contentions and discussions surrounding the recent ‘trend’ across North America to remove or change the word ‘chief’ within academia, industry, and corporations. Importantly, there are varying opinions about using ‘chief’ and its meaning amongst Indigenous peoples, tribes, and clans.
Some people have stated that removing the word is an act of tokenism, while others noted that it’s not an Indigenous term (it’s not) and it is an empty gesture. On the other hand, some individuals and groups have noted that it does have significant meaning in their culture and is an honourable title for leaders of tribes. Others have reminded us that the word was and continues to be used as a racist slur towards Indigenous men. Out of respect to Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit Peoples, we will no longer use or include this term in the title of our positions or in describing our roles.
CUPE 4207 understands the importance of our role as academic contract workers in Calls to Action and Reconciliation. The Executive Committee is committed to learning, understanding, and incorporating the Indigenization of Post Secondary Education at Brock University.
Tracy Kennedy,
On behalf of the Executive Committee