By definition: Rank and File refers to the ordinary members of an organization as opposed to its leaders.

ACTRA BY-LAW Number 7, Section 2 - states, “Members have the right to assemble freely. To organize with fellow members and to form a caucus."

So, what is a caucus? In the context of a labour Union, a caucus is similar to a committee but operates independently from Union officials. Forming a caucus is fundamental for members who aim to reform their Union and help shape its policies and structure.

Establishing a union caucus allows members to organize and pursue their goals and aspirations collaboratively. By doing so, members lead one another, unite their voices, concentrate their efforts and advance their goals. #Democracy #Community

Union organizing unites workers to address their workplace issues and collectively improve their conditions. It involves reflecting on our individual experiences in the workplace and identifying the challenges we face. By finding common ground and shared values, we can develop a collective strategy to challenge the employer and advocate for change.

As highlighted by Jane McAlevey, advocacy and mobilization efforts typically target individuals who already support our cause, while organizing focuses on winning over workers who may initially disagree. RCAP recognizes the importance of both aspects and aims to engage and organize within our existing support network while also reaching out to bring new members and our community closer to our cause.

Organizing also allows us to "structure test," as described by McAlevey. This means we can assess the level of participation and the collective power of our members. Understanding these dynamics helps us gauge our capacity to drive meaningful change and informs our organizing strategies.

>> Transparency
>> Union meetings
>> Timely, 2-way communication
>> Member-led, Rank & File organizing
>> Bargaining Reform

In March 2023, we filed a petition with a singular goal: to restore our union’s member-led power as we persist in the NCA battle against our union-busting employers.

The petition specifically outlined the crucial need for transparency, open bargaining, improved communications, and the establishment of a permanent bargaining strategy committee. These strategies have proven successful worldwide, and our objective is to harness the strength of our members through active participation. This is bargaining reform.

We want to return to work with a robust collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that brings increased stability to one of the most precarious labour sectors in the country. The focus of our petition centred on the NCA, as this remains the crisis we currently confront.

The RCAP Steering Committee unequivocally supports ACTRA. We are all ACTRA. We are doing this work because we stand with our Union.

On April 26th, 2022, the Institute of Canadian Agencies (ICA), led by Scott Knox, insisted 15 (then 16) agencies walk away from the table and the National Commercial Agreement (NCA)—bargaining in bad faith—leaving 9000 commercial actors out of work. They want to gut our wages (60-89%), create instability in this jurisdiction, and bust the union. Learn more at ACTRA.CA

The lockout has had a devastating impact, not just on our professional lives but also on our families, relationships, and communities. It's affected our creativity, stamina, and sense of self-worth. It's taken a toll on our investments in our careers and futures, leaving members struggling to make ends meet.

This isn't just about us—it's about the 60 years of collective bargaining that's at risk. It's about our Union officials, elected council and member culture. It's about standing up for what's right and fighting for what we believe in.

Caucus curious? Cool!

>> Have you read our principles?
>> Do you feel aligned with this work and are seeking an opportunity to connect and organzine with fellow members?
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>> As we grow, you will know. We believe in meetings and elevated communication. We also believe in people power.

Rallys, Disruptions, Town Halls and more—let’s show up & stand together.