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After a decade-long hiatus, the Unifor Education department successfully reintroduced the 4-Week Paid Education Leave (PEL) program this year. Originating in 1978 at the Unifor Education Centre, this influential program has impacted over 6,500 graduates, shaping them into leaders within their communities, workplaces, local unions, and the national union.
This year's resurgence of the 4-Week PEL program is not just a comeback; it's a homage to the program's historical significance within the union.
Regarded as the Education department’s most comprehensive initiative, the program delves into critical topics such as the economy, human rights, politics, globalization, and social movements. However, it goes beyond mere knowledge acquisition, aiming to instill a profound sense of working-class solidarity among participants that extends far beyond the confines of the classroom.
The culmination of this year's program saw 35 activists graduate, armed with a nuanced understanding of current issues impacting the union and its social justice allies. Participants were not just passive learners; they were encouraged to initiate activist projects within their home communities. These projects focused on pivotal issues, including Truth and Reconciliation, the fight against health care privatization, awareness of transgender issues, housing security, rent strikes, food security, and solidarity with migrant workers.
“We are thrilled to see the triumphant return of the 4-Week PEL program at Unifor,” said Lana Payne, National President of Unifor. “Witnessing its success this year fills me with immense pride. The dedication and enthusiasm of our members in making this program a success once again is truly commendable.”
Ryan McComb, one of the 35 graduates in the 2023 program, expressed his gratitude, stating, "I've learned and grown so much. I've forged connections with other union activists across the country. I've developed a union family—four weeks that I am incredibly thankful for."
Looking ahead, Unifor has announced plans to offer the 4-Week PEL program again in 2024, emphasizing the importance of local participation in shaping the union's future leadership.
“The Education department sends a big thank you to all the local unions who sent members to the program this year. What a remarkable group of activists. We look forward to hearing more about their future activism, and we look forward to meeting the next group of 4-Week PEL participants in 2024,” said Robin Fairchild, Director of the Education Department.
For those seeking more information about the 4-Week PEL program, visit unifor.org/4week. The program’s return marks not only a revival, but a testament to Unifor's commitment to empowering and cultivating the leaders of tomorrow.
