Key Points

• Innovative Partnership: United Steelworkers (USW), CFLPA, and White Ribbon collaborate on the Elevating Action program to tackle gender-based violence.
• Player Leadership: CFL stars like Aaron Grymes and Chris Van Zeyl participate in the first cohort to become spokespeople against gender-based violence.
• Comprehensive Training: Members receive training at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Alberta, integrating the program into community and workplace cultures.

A Groundbreaking Initiative

In a significant step towards social change, the United Steelworkers union (USW), the Canadian Football Players’ Association (CFLPA), and White Ribbon have embarked on a collaborative journey. The trio’s “Elevating Action” program, announced during Grey Cup festival week, is a groundbreaking initiative designed to combat gender-based violence. This week marks the commencement of training for the first group of CFLPA players and USW members in Jasper, Alberta.

Prominent CFL Players Join the Cause

The program has attracted notable CFL athletes who are set to become leaders and advocates in this vital cause. Among them are Aaron Grymes of the Edmonton Elks, Chris Van Zeyl from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Andrew Peirson of the BC Lions, Emmanuel Arceneaux, also of the Edmonton Elks, and Brett Lauther from the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Their involvement signifies the CFLPA’s commitment to playing a pivotal role in social change.

Training for Change

The participants are undergoing their training at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, a unionized venue that’s part of the Alberta Federation of Labour school. This training is a crucial step in preparing the CFLPA members and USW representatives to deliver the Elevating Action program effectively in their respective unions, workplaces, and communities, embodying a new culture that actively challenges gender-based violence.

Building on a Legacy of Advocacy

Elevating Action is not the first endeavor in this three-way partnership. It builds upon the success of previous programs like “Men Speak Up” and “Be More than a Bystander.” These initiatives laid the groundwork for this more comprehensive approach, underlining the ongoing commitment of the CFLPA, USW, and White Ribbon in addressing and mitigating issues of bullying and gender-based violence in society.