balancing-act

 

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It’s a balancing act.

It’s a balancing act
She has to work until eight.
The babysitter won’t wait.
The grievor’s irate.
And she just wants a break.

It’s a balancing act

A waiting list at the Home,
Her disability requires she not be alone
Now that the kids moved away
Mom’s here to stay

It’s a balancing act

They think the benefit plan is ok
They don’t know that he’s gay
He’s afraid to come out
Risking his job to defend
Human rights – what it’s all about

It’s a balancing act

They say they want her to get active
Take a course and run for office
But will they help her to succeed
And adopt a child care policy to meet her needs?

It’s a balancing act

He works days, she works nights
Who will pick up the kids
Who is cleaning the house
Who’s shopping and cooking
When will they get it right

It’s a balancing act

The school calls ahead to say
They had to send your sick child home
Do you take one of your vacation days,
Or leave her home alone?

It’s a balancing act

He wants to be active in the union
But they choose weekdays to meet
When the kids’ soccer teams all compete
Is his commitment measured by his choice?
Or will the union find a way to give him a voice

It’s a balancing act

They want to adopt a child
And take some time
But do the maternity, paternity and parental benefits apply?

It’s a balancing act

It’s time again to negotiate
Hours of work and vacation dates.
We have a duty to accommodate
Cultural and religious traditions
Time for new agreement provisions?

It’s a balancing act

It’s a matter of fact.

It’s a Balancing Act. That’s why we have policies to help workers balance work, family and union activity. Through contract language, local union by-laws and political action we can address the diverse needs of workers.