As a vibrant and dynamic local union, we are proud to make our voices heard on the issues that affect working families in this province and that’s exactly what we’ve been doing. All across Ontario, Local 1006A members, activists and staff came together through several initiatives last month to create change in our communities.
At Queen’s Park, your union rallied with thousands of workers and allies in support of fairer hours, safer working conditions, $15 minimum wage, paid sick days & vacations and the elimination of the gender/racialized wage gap.
In Brampton and Ottawa, we supported efforts to end gender-based violence by participating in Take Back the Night rallies and walks. Our daughters, sisters, wives and mothers have the right to be safe whether they are walking down the street, at work or in their homes and as a union, we are committed to being a powerful force for change in ending all forms of violence against women.
In Hamilton, Toronto and Sarnia, members and staff gathered and marched on Labour Day in support of a fair and just society for all.
In London, Ottawa and Toronto, our members and activists continued the important work of raising awareness and support of lifesaving research into blood cancers by hosting and raising funds through yard sales. Thanks to the efforts of UFCW Canada members, those diagnosed are living longer, and others are in complete remission.
At the union office, the fall session of Stewards Training has begun with hundreds of stewards participating. Our comprehensive education and training program helps stewards develop their skills and knowledge to better protect our members' rights.
In addition, the Executive Board reviewed and approved Membership policies and procedures for the local union as part of ongoing effort to better serve our members.
As always, contract negotiations are underway at many of our bargaining units as union negotiators seek to improve our members’ rights and working conditions.
Finally, I will be joining our members and activists at the Light the Night Walk in Toronto on October 19 to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada. We will also be holding Light the Night walks in London on October 15, and Ottawa on October 22. This is a great opportunity to participate with your union for a good cause and we look forward to seeing you there.
If you have any questions about how you can get involved in your union or have concerns at work, please contact your union representative. We are here to help.
In Solidarity,
Wayne Hanley
President, UFCW Canada Local 1006A
