Local 1000A was out in full force as members joined tens of thousands of marchers at Toronto’s annual Labour Day Parade on September 3, 2012. Decked out in their UFCW gold t-shirts, Local 1000A members, along with their family and friends, danced, chanted and flew their UFCW flags high as they marched from Queen St and University Ave to the CNE.
“What a fantastic day and what a fantastic turnout,” said Local 1000A President Pearl Sawyer. “It was incredible to march side by side with our members and their families in this critical fight for fair pay, good jobs and retirement security for all. Thank you to all those who came out for making your voice heard on this Labour Day.”
Ahmad Gaied, a steward from a Markham Loblaw Great Food store, was among the many members in attendance.
“Without labour, the rights we have wouldn’t exist,” Gaied said. “Politically, it is important to participate in Labour Day to ensure workers’ voices are heard loud and clear by those at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill.”
Bill Fowlie, a steward from a North York No Frills, said it was incredible to see all the unions out in full force on Labour Day.
“It is a pleasure to walk with our brothers and sisters from our local union as well as well other unions across the country.”
Glacier Samuel, a Local 1000A activist from Oakville’s Real Canadian Superstore, brought her children to the event.
“I wanted my kids to learn the significance of Labour Day,” Samuel said. “Both me and my husband are laborers, and today was about showing our appreciation for all of those who work in retail.”
