Hundreds of UFCW Canada Local 1000A members and activists came together for Labour Day to march for fairness, justice and equality through the streets of downtown Toronto.
“Labour Day is about standing up for my rights and my co-workers’ rights,” said Lisa Van Altena-Walsh, who works at Loblaws Great Food. “I am here because I am proud of my union, and I am proud to be an active member—Labour Day to me is about celebrating what we have accomplished and have yet to accomplish.”
The parade, celebrated annually, started at the corner of University Avenue and Queen St and ended at the CNE. An estimated 25,000 people participated.
"Labour Day is an opportunity for us to celebrate and reaffirm our commitment to fighting for fairness, social justice and equality for all," said Local 1000A President Pearl Sawyer. It is also a time to reflect on the labour movement’s many achievements, which include leading the way in advocating for universal health care, vacations, sick days, maternity leave, 8-hour workdays, pensions, health and safety standards at workplaces and much more.
Today as in the past, unions continue to be at the forefront of fighting for a fairer and more just society, whether it be advocating for progressive childcare policies for families, lower tuition rates for students, or helping workers win rights in the workplace.
Sunil Dargan, who works at a Real Canadian Superstore, has attended Labour Day for the last 27 years.
“It’s in my blood,” Sunil said. “It’s about getting involved and improving what is going on in the world.” Sunil said the day is also an opportunity to reflect on how to grow the union movement.
Ricardo Hinds, who works at Maple Leaf Poultry, marched in the Labour Day parade for the very first time. He said union representation makes a big difference as it provides workers job security and protection from unfair treatment.
“Without the union, we have no rights.”
