The Prairie Region Council (PRC) welcomes another new member with the addition of Darlene Lewis as Edmonton Area Council Rep. A Health Canada employee for more than 13 years, Lewis was elected to the position at an Edmonton Area Council meeting earlier this year.
“My passion is helping people, and educating them on their rights,” explains Lewis. “Right now people need to realize Harper is trying to weaken our public services.”
Aside from her new role, Lewis also sits as vice-president on the Edmonton Area Council, chair for the Edmonton Regional Women’s Committee, and has been active in various roles on her local executive. But, as she explains, it’s also important for members to step outside of their local.
“It’s great to be involved on your local executive, but I also think you need to be public and advise Canadians of the role public service workers play. We need to engage the public through political action and ensure we are seen and heard.”
For Lewis, the ongoing attacks on unions and working people have reaffirmed the need to stand up and fight back.
“We all need to start working together––all of us––to protect our unions, our benefits, and our families’ futures.”
Former Edmonton Area Council Rep Nina Kiviluoma resigned her seat after being selected the successful candidate for the position of administrative assistant in the PSAC Calgary Regional Office. Kiviluoma had served on the PRC since 2008.