Local 1000A activist Shirley Walker was named the recipient of the 2014 "Pearl" award at the local union's 8th Annual Stewards Conference.
"I am humbled by this honour," Shirley said. "It's incredible and totally unexpected. I have been fortunate and I feel it is my responsibility as a citizen to use my voice for those who cannot speak up for themselves and to stand up for the most vulnerable in our society."
Established in 2005 by the local union's Women's Issues Network (WIN), the "Pearl" Award is presented to female members who have been instrumental in developing and implementing initiatives for Local 1000A women, the labour movement and their community. With the exception of nominators or nominees, executive members of WIN select the recipient based on completed nomination applications.
"Shirley Walker is a compassionate and dedicated activist who has been tireless in standing up for Local 1000A members at work and in our communities," said President Pearl Sawyer.
Shirley is a member of Local 1000A's Pride Advisory Group, Community Action Network, and Political Action Network. She is also the President of the Ontario NDP Women's Committee.
