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“All In and Reinvigorated”: Darlene Smith Reflects on the CFNU Convention
June 19, 2025
For Darlene Smith of Branch 48, the 2025 CFNU Biennial Convention was more than a professional gathering—it was a week of learning, connecting, and recharging her commitment to union activism.
A highlight for Darlene was the Indigenous Health panel, where powerful discussion brought attention to social injustice and systemic inequities. “One takeaway for me was the social injustices that many vulnerable and Indigenous populations suffer. We must be aware of our own biases and strive to be and do better,” she reflected. The panel featured award-winning physician Dr. Alika Lafontaine, Mi’kmaw RN Dawn GooGoo, Indigenous nursing leader Kerri Nuku of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation and Lheidli T’enneh nurse Candi DeSousa.
Outside of the education sessions, she also enjoyed the lighter side of convention life. “The Wayne Gretzky Winery social night was such a great event. A real highlight,” she said.
This was Darlene’s second CFNU Convention, and it left a lasting impact. “It very much reinvigorated my union activism,” she shared. “Being part of the CFNU and its large membership reminded me that we have a powerful group fighting together. Hearing the struggles and strategies from across Canada boosted my commitment to my fellow RNs.”
The convention’s “All In” theme struck a chord. “We really have to be all in if we want to fight against privatization in our health care system. We need equality—not a two-tiered system,” Darlene emphasized.
But perhaps one of the most rewarding parts of the experience was the connection. “It felt awesome to meet nurses from across the country. I’ve made new friendships within my own province and with members of SUN [Saskatchewan Union of Nurses], especially.”
Reflecting on the week, Darlene summed it up simply: “I learned so much and shared it with my co-workers. Hearing from other great union leaders across the country boosted morale—you really feel like you’re part of a movement with a great deal of strength.”