Episode 7: Interview with Karen Kuprys, UNA 2nd Vice President

In this insightful episode, Local 196 A&E Committee member Gerri Logan sat down with the 2nd Vice President of the United Nurses of Alberta (UNA), Karen Kuprys, for an in-depth discussion about her career journey, focusing on her previous role as Secretary-Treasurer of the Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) from 2021 to 2024 and how it shaped her current position at UNA. She delved into the connections between her past work in the AFL and the ongoing struggles within the healthcare sector, especially highlighting the similarities between the political climate surrounding the 1988 healthcare strike and today’s negotiations.

Karen also discussed the pressing issue of healthcare privatization and its implications on the work of UNA and Alberta’s nurses. Karen explained why UNA maintains strong relationships with key organizations like the Alberta Federation of Labour, the Canadian Labour Congress, Friends of Medicare, Parkland Institute, and Public Interest Alberta. These alliances, she stressed, are essential for building collective power, as standing united within the House of Labour gives the movement more strength and influence than when these groups stand apart.

This episode provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by healthcare workers, the importance of solidarity, and the ongoing fight against privatization. Tune in for a closer look at how UNA continues to fight for the rights of nurses and the future of healthcare in Alberta.

Please note, the information, opinions, and recommendations expressed by guests and hosts in this Podcast are their own those don’t necessarily reflect the views of Local 196 or United Nurses of Alberta.

If you have enjoyed the content of this podcast or have any suggestions for improvement, please reach out to the local 196 executive at local196exec@una.ca and/or leave a comment.

We can also be reached at https://local196una.ca/