Manon Bernard, former President of the Federation of Education Unions (FSE-CSQ), became involved in her community affairs after leaving FSE. From 2017 to 2021 she sat on the municipal council of Lac-Mégantic.
Many comments from readers often imply that trade unionists only have it for their members or the contributions. Manon’s career proves otherwise and shows that unionists are not one-dimensional.
Curiously, it was a CSQ General Council conference that inspired its community engagement. The late journalist and author Gil Courtemanche mentioned that we could make a difference for people’s well-being at the local level.
This woman, who championed justice and was passionate about quality education for all, was so shaken by the Lac-Mégantic tragedy that she began to bear the anger and pain of her fellow citizens.
Driven by a desire to help rebuild her devastated city and bring some serenity back, Manon launched an election campaign after being asked to run.
When elected, she spared no effort to improve the lives of her fellow citizens, with a particular focus on families and the facilities provided to them.
Despite suffering from severe cancer, she ended her term of office on the municipal council with the same determination and is still committed to the development of her city today. However, many regret that she no longer sits on the municipal council.
multidimensional
Originally from Beauce – which probably explains her entrepreneurial spirit – Manon settled in Lac-Mégantic 46 years ago after getting an apprenticeship there.
She decided to care for the poorest by choosing to study special education. Her quest for justice led her to become widely involved in the union.
She was a mother of three sons and trembled for them, who would probably have spent their evening at the Musi-Café the day before the tragedy if they hadn’t left earlier on a trip the next day. She’s still shaking today!
She is proud of her city and excited to accompany all her friends on an urban pilgrimage full of emotion and hope.
lesson
Like many others, the Lac Mégantic union leader felt doubts and anger about the short-term management of the tragedy.
However, she admits that the then city council performed best in a complex environment that made it difficult to unravel the inextricable web of multiple departments.
She is convinced that the bypass must be achieved. However, she regrets the resulting misunderstanding.
In her opinion, the pain will linger for a long time, but we must move forward and take advantage of the improvements that the tragedy has brought.
