Tuesday, February 02, 2010

Monica Hirst for Regional Equalities Convenor

Check out here for preamble - Below is Monica's election statement (updated with photo) for London UNISON Regional Equalities Convenor. 

"I am seeking your support for election as Regional Equalities Convenor.

I am the Branch Secretary of Brent PCT and also the Staff Side Chair. I have worked in the NHS for over 25 years as an enrolled nurse, Staff Nurse, Health Visitor and now Nurse Educator.

I am experienced in representing and campaigning on behalf of our members and our union and am not afraid to speak up and be heard.

I believe in fairness and equality for ALL. Discrimination and inequality unfortunately continue to exist and affect many of our members on a daily basis and we all have a role to play in opposing and challenging this in whatever forms in exists. It is not acceptable that in 2009 people are discriminated against because of their gender, race, age, sexuality or disability and we must all work towards ensuring true equality for all.

Equalities legislation such as the forthcoming Equalities Bill gives us unique opportunities to negotiate and bring about real changes for our members both at work and at home, especially with the current political and economic climate and the challenges facing our members delivering public services in the coming year. The region has done much to campaign on equality and to provide support to activists in bargaining for equality. I see the role of the Equalities Convenor being central to ensuring this issue continues to be a priority on all agendas and to build on the work that has been started.

Our membership in London is the most diverse and this diversity must be celebrated. We must ensure that the opportunity to participate in the union at all levels exists for every one of our members. That they feel part of the union and that they are able to contribute and participate in whatever form is at the heart of the equalities agenda.

I want to be part of the Regional Convenor Team, working with Gloria Hanson, Conroy Lawrence, John Gray, Lynn Bentley and Emma Rolland to play an active role in strengthening our union in London by bringing greater unity and democracy, building participation across the differing self organised and service groups, and building a union to be proud of".

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

well done Monica