LGBTQ activist and Ottawa-area steward Jackie Graticola, known for her “heart of gold” has been named the winner of the 2013 Pearl Sawyer Award.
“Her passion cannot help but bubble to the surface at every UFCW Local 1000A event,” wrote Mary Joe Eaton, last year’s Pearl Award winner, in her nomination letter for Graticola. “She never tires, she never stops smiling and she never stops waving our flag’s colours.”
In his nomination letter, Local 1000A steward Bill Fowlie said Graticola is “a very smart strong woman, a leader and has a heart of gold.”
“I would think things did not always come easy for her but she still thinks of others,” he wrote. “She is a strong passionate steward, a trustworthy steward and a true friend.”
Graticola is one of the founding members of Local 1000A’s Pride Advisory Group. She has organized Local 1000A’s participation in Capital (Ottawa) Pride for the last two years and has helped with Toronto and Brockville Pride. In addition, she is an elected member of UFCW’s OUTreach, a newly formed group which is dedicated to building solidarity and mutual support with LGBTQ communities throughout Canada and the United States.
"Sister Jackie is an outstanding and passionate advocate for fairness and equality and I am pleased to congratulate her on this achievement," said Local 1000A President Pearl Sawyer.
In addition, Graticola is a dedicated and committed activist who is currently helping the union through visiting members at Ottawa-area stores to answer questions, share information about the union and resolve any issues that arise.
“It was hard for me to keep my composure as I was fighting back tears of gratitude and shock that I was chosen for the Pearl Sawyer Award,” Graticola said. “I am so honoured and proud to have received this recognition.”
Established in 2005, the Pearl Award is annually presented to female members for assisting with initiatives for women, the labour movement and their community. It is named after Local 1000A President Pearl Sawyer. With the exception of the nominators or nominees, WIN (Women’s Issues Network) Executive members select the recipient.
