ENDORSEMENTS
FOR SECOND VP 2022
Rae has been endorsed for Second VP by the Burnaby Teachers' Association and the Vancouver Elementary School Teachers' Association.
Rae is one of those rare people who can hear information, immediately see the big questions, start doing the math, and be ten steps ahead of everyone else in the room.
Rae has excellent instincts and her values come from deep experience, a commitment to equity and an understanding that through dialogue, consultation and research, good decisions will be made.
Rae is whip smart, always well prepared, and has the commitment to democracy that drives effective leadership.
For me, Rae has been a mentor, a friend, a resource, someone whose guts I trust, and an incredible advocate on behalf of teachers and students.
I’m supporting Rae. I hope you do too.
-Jody Polukoshko, VESTA VP, grade 5/6/7 teacher
Rae Figursky is the leader we need at this critical time. Rae’s experience in local and provincial roles, her dedication to the profession, and her insightful analysis will all contribute to her success as a full-time table officer. When I think of Rae’s leadership I think of how she empowers others. It’s her belief in a member-driven federation and her ability to organize members behind issues that sets Rae apart. Rae understands that no union officer does great work without the solidarity of members. As a teacher, I know that Rae has my back. I wholeheartedly support Rae for 2nd VP.
-Kip Wood, Bargaining Chair, Nanaimo
It is with great honour and respect that I endorse Rae Figursky for 2nd VP. When I was on the BCTF Executive Committee, Rae demonstrated great leadership. I appreciated her thoughtful, kind-hearted, and compassionate ways of being. Rae was always willing to share her knowledge and made sure I was feeling welcomed and included at the EC table. I witnessed the wonderful gifts Rae shares with everyone in her journey. One thing I noticed immediately, is that Rae seeks out new ideas and listens to different perspectives, thinks carefully about the alternatives, considers the possibilities and then develops a reasonable and respectful position. Rae speaks with integrity and is very humble. She keeps the students at the centre of all decisions and she listens carefully. She understands the different needs of the rural and urban communities because she lived in the north and now resides in the lower mainland. I am grateful and blessed to have Rae in my journey. My hands are raised in honour and respect for the work she has done and for the work she will continue to do on behalf of the students and teachers in the public education system. She is my mentor, colleague, friend and sister that I am supporting and encourage you all to support as well.
-with great respect, Marjorie Dumont, C'tan, VP/VESTA, Prep/Resource Teacher
I have had the opportunity to observe Rae in action at several EC meetings as well as at Rep Assemblies and AGMs. Rae always arrives very well prepared for every meeting she attends. She brings great local and provincial experience with her.
Rae is outspoken and does not hesitate to take on difficult topics. For all of these reasons, I am happy to endorse Rae for 2nd Vice President.
-Gabriel Bureau, President, Prince Rupert
I fully endorse Rae Figursky running for 2nd VP for the BCTF. I've worked closely with Rae for almost 20 years I've seen how hard she works to bring a just and equitable lens to all the Union work she does at the provincial and local levels.
She is always available to answer questions from members about union matters and I have found her to be supportive, dedicated and very approachable on all issues. I highly respect her point of view. I appreciate her advocacy on behalf of all members including Indigenous teachers and BIPOC members. I think our Union would be stronger with Rae as the 2nd VP!
-Ditta Cross, Burnaby Teachers' Association Local Rep., Indigenous Educator
I am happy Rae is running for 2nd Vice President. I have worked with her on our local executive for many years and she is a thoughtful, caring and well spoken member of the executive. She listens to all points of view and has thoughtful and meaningful discussions with everyone. She has been a BCTF activist for her whole career and brings an important voice to the BCTF Executive table as someone who knows and has lived the history of the BCTF, and it is time for her to bring that voice to the work as a full-time table officer. It is important to know the history or things can be lost because people don’t understand the importance of simple statements in the members' guide. Rae has my full support; she cares about all members across the province and is always there to answer questions for members.
- Alex Peters, LR Burnaby
I am honoured to count Rae Figursky as a friend and mentor.
Rae is generous with her time and her knowledge. She welcomes questions and debate and seems to always be available, always working for teachers’ best interests.
We need more leaders like Rae. She is the real thing: smart and kind, passionate and generous, principled and fierce. Rae lifts people up. And we really need some uplifting right now!
I urge you to vote for Rae Figursky for 2nd Vice President.
-Denise Wood, Past President, Nanaimo District Teachers' Association
Rae Figursky is one of my favourite people to disagree with. I've worked with Rae in the Burnaby Teachers' Association and at Alpha Secondary School on and off for many years, and our disagreements are few. But when you are in disagreement with Rae her truly remarkable qualities show through. First, she has the ability to listen--truly and deeply listen--to what your opinion is. Then she will directly, and with calm and reasoned language, explain her position. She will use evidence, her strong understanding of our union's history, and her incisive grasp of issues to clarify both her position and yours! Then she will come up with a balanced solution that considers all the angles and all the players. Rae Figursky is exactly the kind of smart, thoughtful and well-spoken individual we need to gain ground over the coming year.
-Donna Morgan, Delegate, Burnaby
Past Endorsements--2021
I am so excited to have another opportunity to vote for Rae Figursky for Member at Large.
Her knowledge & experience have provided an understanding of BCTF policies, procedures & history that has served our membership so well in the past; And I hope will continue to do so going forward. Rae is a critical & analytical thinker and as such, is known for contributing insightful, creative ideas, strategies and solutions to best achieve the intended goals of our Federation.
Rae’s advocacy and representation is always guided by the principle of ”that which is in the best interests of our Federation & it’s members”. I urge you to vote based on the same principle & cast your vote for Rae Figursky
-Kim Meyer – President, KDTA Local #80
It is an understatement to say that Rae cares deeply about teachers and will work tirelessly on our behalf. From the end of an exhausting and drawn-out bargaining round, straight into the new and unpredictable realities of teaching in a pandemic, Rae brought not only years of knowledge and experience to the provincial executive table, but an approach that is always grounded in strengthening our collective power. She has her ear close to the ground and never loses sight that to be in this role is to be in service to others. Rae is always willing to take a principled stance and understands that a strong union is one that recommits to its social justice principles by action. I am proud to call her a friend, a colleague and a mentor. Re-elect Rae!
-Preet Lidder, VSTA
I have known Rae for many years. She is a passionate, thoughtful and vocal advocate for members and their rights. Rae knows the importance of defending the collective agreement and has a keen sense for bargaining. I have had the pleasure of seeing Rae in action speaking on behalf of members at RA's and AGM's.
Rae 's voice and thoughtful perspective on our Executive has been valuable. Her leadership skills have been very evident. She speaks and questions in a very respectful, measured way which I appreciated. I had the privilege of working closely with Rae when I was on the Executive.
Rae’s commitment to social justice, equity, diversity and inclusion within our union and society is unwavering. She works toward increased BIPOC voice and representation within our union and the importance of supporting and engaging in anti racist actions within our union, schools and communities. Rae believes in the importance of grassroots unionism, and support for all locals. She also brings the experience and voice of the classroom to our debates and decision making. This is an important perspective.
I encourage you to speak with Rae about her views and what she believes is important for members, our union and our future.
Rae will continue to serve us proudly and conscientiously on our Executive.
-Jim Iker, Burns Lake
Rae has a wealth of knowledge that I have relied on to help me navigate the changing landscape of both BCTF and local matters. I have been able to talk to her about concerns in my local with regards to recruitment and retention and local bargaining issues. Rae is willing to have the hard conversations and to listen to opposing views. She is able to give perspective from local leadership as she has moved through the ranks in the local office. I look forward to continuing to work with Rae.
-Joslyn Bagg, President, Local 88 - 1
I am so pleased to have the opportunity to endorse Rae. Through my work in my local office and as a local rep I have had many opportunities to work with Rae and hear her speak at various BCTF events in her roles as local president and BCTF member at large. Rae’s passion for justice and uplifting the work of teachers is obvious in everything she does. Her commitment to equity is one of her core values and will make the BCTF a more inclusive, safe place for all teachers. She is a strong leader who knows the importance of listening and reflecting, building capacity and supporting members. Her optimism and dedication are infectious, and the work she does for our federation is so appreciated. Rae has the support of our local and I encourage delegates to support her!
-Chloë McKnight, LR & Past President, Vancouver Elementary School Teachers' Association - VESTA
This past year I have had the pleasure of witnessing Rae in action on our provincial executive committee. She has consistently advocated for our working and learning conditions, always considering equity, fairness and inclusivity. At EC meetings I have seen her raise critical concerns regarding the implementation of our collective agreement, bargaining, funding model review and member engagement. Rae not only raises critical concerns, she also offers solutions that work for all; she always considers a balanced perspective. Her point of view is framed by the collective best interest and we are better for this. She has an uncanny ability to hear all points of view, and naturally diffuse conflict. She is an inclusive leader, always considering the needs of the membership, and organizing in a manner to eradicate barriers to participation.
I have seen Rae’s ethical leadership at both the local and provincial level and I am awestruck at her ability to balance a heavy workload and not lose focus of what matters; our students and our working conditions. A strong advocate in her school site, our local and at the BCTF, Rae has always been a go to person for sound advice and guidance. Her numerous years of service at the local level, EC liaison to the provincial WLC/Bargaining Committee, and a former chair of our local’s Status of Women, Scholarship and other committees are just a few excellent examples of her dedication to supporting and advocating for our members and union. Further, in the past four years I have also seen her ability to reach out and form networks in the provincial and national labour movement. Rae is aware not only of the working and learning conditions of our own profession, but those in other professions too. She uses this knowledge to forge solidarity, and is relentless in advocating for workers’ rights everywhere. Rae is highly regarded by both political and labour leaders in BC and across Canada.
She is a dedicated leader, driven to raising up the membership. Rae mentors new teachers in a manner which engages and energizes them to be active in the union, and as such is an expert in building capacity!
Rae has my vote! Rae is a passionate, strong advocate for all members, and she has represented teachers in this province with the utmost integrity. She is approachable, energetic, and upholds the social justice values of our union through her activism. I am honoured to endorse Rae Figursky!
-Shanee Prasad, Second Vice-President (Burnaby), BCFed Equity Rep for Workers of Colour
I feel privileged to endorse Rae Figursky’s candidacy. Rae possesses the qualities of a good leader that can lead our union in meeting the challenges being faced by teachers in the coming years...education funding, class size and composition, teacher shortage, curriculum change, and teacher stress, I strongly believe that Rae is up to the task.
I have known Rae for over 30 years. As a union leader, she has served for two terms as President of the Burnaby Teachers’ Association. Her return to teaching between and after those terms of office has given her insight and awareness of the struggles of teachers and students in the classroom due to class size and composition issues. She was the strike coordinator in Burnaby at our last job action . She has also been a member of our district mentorship and curriculum change committees and is a strong supporter of Professional Development.
As a leader, she is knowledgeable, approachable and supportive. She is a wealth of information on union issues and contract language. She is an effective communicator and negotiator, a respectful and supportive advocate for students, teachers and Education. Let us all support Rae in her bid for re-election.
-Cora Kinoshita, former BTA Health and Safety Chair, BTA Past President
I am excited that Rae is running! Rae has been an Executive Liaison for my Local, and has always been there to listen, to support member issues, to answer questions and to share information.
No matter what area of the province a member is from, Rae represents us all. A wealth of knowledge and experience within various BCTF positions, her local, and in the schools she has taught give Rae the experiences to draw on in an EC role. She works well with others, supporting and building capacity and engagement in all areas.
Rae is my Local’s vote!
-Chris Rolls, President Local 66, Lake Cowichan
Social justice, union activism and bargaining have been important elements of Rae Figursky’s teaching career. She is one who gets involved and stays involved.
Rae, in her early years of teaching, worked on many committees in her Burnaby local and soon became local president. When she returned to the classroom, her activism did not stop.
She has mentored many activists over the years, and has been involved in several rounds of local bargaining. Fast forward 20 plus years and Rae served another term as the BTA president.
Serving as a local president in two distinctly different time periods gives Rae a perspective and knowledge base that not everyone is able to draw upon.
Recently Rae has had the dual role as math teacher at Alpha Secondary in Burnaby and Member-at-Large on the BCTF Executive. Her classroom experience is current and relevant. Rae knows the state of our working conditions first hand from the students she works with and from the teachers at her school.
I have worked with Rae on the BCTF’s Working and Learning Conditions Bargaining Advisory Committee and seen her passion for not only improving the working lives of teachers but also the learning experience for children and youth.
Rae’s voice will always be an active one. Be it through opposition to the Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion, supporting students and families facing renovictions, or mobilizing counter protesters to the Yellow Jacket alt-right movement, Rae is not afraid to take a position. With Rae you know where she stands.
I encourage members at this AGM to ask Rae about her activism both within the BCTF and outside. You will discover a woman of strong character and someone you can easily get behind.
-Greg Canning, Vancouver Elementary , Nightingale School
Rae is indeed a kind, thoughtful, intelligent, competent, dedicated, and inclusive woman. She embodies fairness and is passionately driven by equity. Rae is a capable leader and I trust her. I have seen Rae speak at numerous BCTF events where she demonstrates professional poise, preparation, knows issues inside out, and advocates first and foremost for teachers and students.
Rae is supportive and provides great advice. Whenever I ask her questions about Executive decisions or discussions, she is more than happy to share, and always considerate of my point of view. She has an excellent rapport with everyone -she is enthusiastic, humble, and honest. Rae has excellent communication skills, which helps her connect with people of all ages. She is so adept at hearing diverse perspectives and opinions, and finding a middle ground that brings people together.
Rae has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and morale – I support her!
-Jatinder Bir, 2nd Vice President, Surrey...2019
When I think about the qualities that make a really effective leader, honesty, integrity, intelligence and a good sense of humour come to mind. Add to that dedication to cause, and the ability to collaborate with a team, and you have the perfect leader.
Rae Figursky has all of those qualities in abundance. Her work around the Executive table these past two years has been nothing short of inspiring. Rae comes to every meeting with a deep understanding of the needs and challenges facing us, and is articulate in presenting her thoughts. She also has a strong ability to work with others, from their unique starting points, to bring people together in finding solutions.
As we go forward, our organization needs an articulate leader with deep compassion for our social justice roots – someone who cares about every member (small and large locals alike) and who understands the workings of locals and the Federation. With two terms as local president of the Burnaby Teachers’ Association, and two terms on the BCTF Executive, Rae has the experience and talent needed to provide that leadership.
I encourage everyone to support Rae.
-Shawn Gough, President, Vancouver Island North Teachers’ Association...2019