VICE-PRESIDENT, ATU Local 1320

by Webmaster

Julie Craib is one of those people who you quite often hear before you actually see her. She has a quick and infectious sense of humour that often erupts into boisterous laughing. There is quite often a small twinkle in her eyes that betrays her mischievous thoughts and reliance on humour, even during the most difficult of times. Whether she knows it or not, Julie has her own unique way of brightening the day for all those who she encounters.

Julie was motivated to become involved in the daily activities of Local 1320 when she saw some injustices and wanted to do what she could to identify and prevent new ones from developing. Her unselfish convictions have made her an unbeatable advocate for those who feel that they have been unjustly maligned.

Julie was hired as a Peterborough Transit operator in 1987. She has held a number of positions in Local 1320 with the most recent positions being Steward for three years, then Secretary/Treasurer for 3 years and currently Vice-President. In whatever role she plays, she does so with great enthusiasm, dedication and fervour. In addition to her duties as Vice-President, Julie has been instrumental in conducting much of the research needed by Local 1320 in connection with labour laws and human rights. Julie believes that “knowledge is power”. Like a mother bear protecting her young, Julie will leave no stone unturned nor shrink from confrontation to ensure that each member of Local 1320 is treated fairly and properly.

Our Local’s first strike, which occurred for eight days at the end of September and early October in 2005, was one of the most memorable union related moments for Julie. She admits that just surviving it was a huge accomplishment. She is very quick to point out that the strike helped to galvanize the membership in recognizing our strength, both individually and as a group. Julie has a vast repertoire of humorous stories which she enjoys sharing. She particularly enjoys telling the story about the long meetings in the hotel room between the union officials and city officials during the strike and how she was the only female in the room with eight to ten men. Although it may not appear funny in this written account, Julie can get a big laugh from everyone when she recounts it. There is another one about a “fork” but we won’t get into that one here.

It may seem difficult to believe, but Julie does find some personal time for her own hobbies and interests. She is an avid and very knowledgeable gardener and is very talented at making crafts and sewing. She also enjoys relaxing while fishing with her husband in their boat. Julie never turns down an opportunity to shop.

Julie is a key member of our executive. She freely gives abundant amounts of time, hard work, dedication and enthusiasm to further the cause. Her knowledge and experience on the executive are treasured assets. Julie helps keep her peers happy and sane by just being and sharing herself. It would be difficult to imagine our workplace or union without Julie. We sincerely thank you, Julie, for all that you have done for all of us. We truly appreciate it and we especially value you as a friend.

Where is Julie? She is easy to find. Anytime you want to find her, just follow the laugh.

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