When Involvement Rhymes with Passion

As part of our Union Next Generation Week 2025, the Fédération du personnel de soutien de l’enseignement supérieur (FPSES-CSQ) is recognizing and highlighting the union involvement of its members. Taking a moment to listen to what our young, active and militant workforce is saying, the Federation is showcasing the journeys of committed and inspiring individuals. Here is a profile of Jean-François Cliche.

Jean-François Cliche is a computer technician and a member of the Executive committee (EC) of the Syndicat du personnel de soutien du Cégep de Sherbrooke (SPSCS-CSQ). “I have one morning of union release per week to plan and prepare agendas for our meetings. I learn what issues require a decision from the EC and use the time to meet with colleagues and discuss what’s really important to us,” he explains.

A Long-Standing Involvement

With a bit of humor, Jean-François Cliche looks back on what led to his involvement: “In 2012, I was part of the red square movement. I didn’t participate in the demonstrations in Montreal, but I mobilized here in Sherbrooke. It really changed my understanding of work, the media, and the law. Even today, I look back on that moment as a real turning point in my life.”

When Jean-François Cliche started working as a computer technician at Cégep de Sherbrooke, he quickly felt motivated to take action, get involved, and make a difference. “Working with the support staff, I soon realized that many new employees didn’t know their rights. I informed them about sick days and insurance, answering their questions as best I could.”

Making a Difference

“I personally find that the most important issues are those related to monetary repercussions and working conditions. They can make a real difference in people’s lives, depending on how we vote at meetings,” he says. He recently got involved in supporting a colleague at the end of his probationary period, helping him with his documentation and making him feel less alone, a feeling he believes often accompanies this type of process. “We discussed different scenarios and brainstormed strategies for the future. I provided the help I would have liked to receive if it had been me.”

The Challenges of Union Succession

According to Jean-François Cliche, there are many challenges to union mobilization. “We are living in a time when we don’t need examples; the news speaks for itself. Everything that’s happening in the United States is happening because people haven’t mobilized and gotten involved in society’s democratic processes. The union is somewhat similar: you can say it’s none of your business and not worry about it, but then we’ll end up with poor working conditions. If you don’t worry about politics, politics will worry about you!” he says.

Sharing a Sense of Commitment

“A good way to communicate the importance of a union to people is to demonstrate the organization’s impact on the workplace. Getting involved doesn’t have to become a vocation, just a desire to help your colleagues and share a sense of commitment together,” concludes Jean-François Cliche.