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What is the purpose of the By-Laws?
The ACTRA Toronto By-laws, in accordance with the ACTRA National Constitution and By-Laws, establish the governance model for ACTRA Toronto including the role and composition of the Council, elected Officers, Committees and Caucuses. The By-laws set out the election process as well as the honoraria to be paid to elected or appointed positions.
Why now?
It has been almost 10 years since the last review of the ACTRA Toronto By-Laws. It was important to amend language to reflect our current principles and values, the use of gender-neutral language, and to include in the By-Laws a clear and transparent election process and the role of Council, the Executive and Committees.
How are changes made to the By-Laws?
Amendments must be approved by a majority of full members voting in a referendum.
When will the changes, if approved, take effect?
The amended By-Laws will take effect upon ratification.
What are the key changes being proposed?
- Article 1: Updated language to reflect our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging and our work advancing equality and an industry free of harassment, discrimination, bullying and violence
- Article 4: Expanded description on the role of Council and the practice of appointing Alternates. Note, definition of quorum to require a majority of elected Councillors for financial decisions, elections and amendments to the By-Laws.
- Article 5: Description added on the role of the Executive
- Article 6: New – Provision regarding Committees, Caucuses and Task Forces
- Article 7: Updated and clearer language on the provision of honoraria
- Article 8: Addition of clause to provide for regular review of the By-Laws
- Article 10: The Election process: provision for an Election Committee to oversee an updated and streamlined on-line election
- Article 11: New - Process for By-elections and other elections by Council members /em>
Why a new Article on Committees and Caucuses?
Currently, it is the practice of Council to establish and review Committees every couple of years. The proposed new Article sets out the practice as well as the purpose of Committees, Caucuses and Task Forces.
Why a separate provision for the Stunt Committee?
The provision in the current by-laws has been in place since the mid-1990s. It is time for the stunt community to be consulted and for it to determine what size and composition would best meet their needs today. Recognizing the unique needs of the stunt community, there is a provision for the stunt community to establish a stunt committee that is representative of, and accountable to the stunt community. The new provision further provides for the stunt community to engage in a review of their committee every couple of years in line with the practice of other Council committees to undertake such reviews.
What is changing in the election process?
The proposed changes include the establishment of an Election Committee to oversee the process, and to ensure members are fully aware of the rules for nomination of candidates, the campaign and voting periods. The Election Committee is also responsible for organizing at least one all-candidates’ meeting.
Why a new process for in-Council elections and By-elections?
Currently, the practice is for the Executive Director to set out the rules for in-Council elections and By-elections. The proposed changes provide for a clear process to be followed that is accessible and transparent.
Who can answer my questions about voting credentials and election procedures?
If you have questions about voting credentials or election procedures, please email us.
Who is eligible to vote?
ACTRA Toronto By-Law Article (8.1) provides that the By-Laws, "may be amended by majority vote, through a referendum vote by secret ballot, of all ACTRA Toronto full members in good standing. " On July 5th, voting credentials were emailed to all ACTRA Toronto voters who were eligible as of June 25th, 2021. Online voting opened on July 5, 2021 and voting closes on Monday, July 19, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. ET.