OPIRG Community Activist Training (O-CAT) (formerly OPIRG Board Training School, BTS) is an opportunity for OPIRG network members to get together to build connection, skills and solidarity. This year it will take place May 24-25 virtually.
OPIRG Community Activist Training (O-CAT) will be a chance to meet all the other amazing OPIRG-involved organizers and Board members from across the Province. You’ll get to learn about other Chapters’ programs and campaigns, attend sessions to solidify your skills, troubleshoot common problems together, and socialize with other radical change makers. The people you meet at O-CAT will likely continue to be sources of support, friendship, and comradeship for years to come.
Who is this for?
All OPIRG Board members, action group members, volunteers, and staff are all welcome!
The name OPIRG Community Activist Training (O-CAT) refers to how this event emphasizes growing the capacity of student/community organizers to act effectively as Board members at PIRG Chapters, and we are also hosting workshops that are relevant to student/community organizers in general so we know folks will get a lot out of it even if your role at OPIRG isn’t as a Board member.
SATURDAY, MAY 24:
10 AM – 12 PM
Anti-Oppression and Decolonization Training
with Carmel Whittle (Indigenous Relations Coordinator, OPIRG-GRIPO)
Description: We take a look at power, privilege, and systems of oppression. We will also look into intersectionality and white supremacy to come to a shared understanding of anti-racism/anti-oppression (AR/AO) theory and practice. We will explore how individuals and groups are impacted by systems of oppression and what can be done to effect change.
This Session is for ALL: OPIRG Board members, Staff, action group members, volunteers, etc.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM (*Time for Q/A and problem solving until 2 pm)
Consensus 101 Training (online joint screening)
with Kate Klein, recorded for online screening later (group screening)
Description: Consensus decision-making is a collaborative process that seeks solutions acceptable to all group members, emphasizing inclusivity, equity, and shared power. This workshop introduces participants to the principles, values, and practical tools of consensus, with a focus on creating safer, more participatory, and more accountable spaces—especially within activist and grassroots organizing contexts. Please set aside at least 1.5 hours to move through the workshop. The more you meaningfully participate in the self-reflection activities throughout, the more prepared you will be to skillfully participate in a consensus decision-making process!
This Session is for ALL: OPIRG Board members, Staff, action group members, volunteers, etc.
SUNDAY, MAY 25:
10 AM – 12 PM
Employer Rights and Responsibilities
with Sadiyah Jamal, Past OPIRG Toronto, OPIRG McMaster, and OPIRG Provincial Board Member
Description: What are your rights and responsibilities as individual board members and as a board as a whole? How do we embody radical values in the Western colonial structure of a “board of directors”? How can we do this work from a regenerative approach, with a commitment to social justice principles and embodying radical values? At the Board Rights and Responsibilities workshop, we will be discussing these questions and sharing stories and strategies to be effective and progressive board members.
(will be recorded for viewing later)
This session is geared towards current and prospective OPIRG Board members + interested action group members. There will be plenty of time for discussion and questions.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Transformative Justice + Conflict and Dispute Resolution (will be recorded for viewing later)
with Jeff Bradley, PhD candidate, Carleton U and OPIRG Ottawa volunteer
Description: Conflict is a normal part of our daily lives – whether it be with coworkers, friends, family, or people you meet every day. How can we transform our conflicts into moments of learning and reflection using the principles of social justice and support within our PIRG chapters and network? Come learn some strategies to evolve your conflicts and have respectful disagreements.
This Session is for ALL: OPIRG Board members, Staff, action group members, volunteers, etc.
Need more information? Want to register for the above? Please reach out directly to Victoria, OPIRG Provincial Coordinator at: opirgprovcoordinator@gmail.com.
