Social and Labour activism in the name of improving life for workers happens every day. Those working for this betterment of the human condition seldom take a day off. With that said, some days in the struggle are a little brighter than others.
In the ongoing fight to improve life and work for all people in Grey and Bruce Counties, September saw our region stand tall and strong.
The Grey Bruce Labour Council and the Labour Council in collaboration with union affiliates and partners such as UNIFOR Retirees and the UNIFOR Family Education Centre, the Grey Bruce Health Coalition and the Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force saw a successful Labour Day parade and celebration where over 2,500 people marched and celebrated the contributions of workers across Canada.
Only two weeks later, this collaboration and further collaboration with Grey Bruce Friends of Charlie Angus set the stage to the hugely successful and sold-out Charlie Angus Resistance tour with stops in Port Elgin and Owen Sound.
Over 800 people found words of inspiration to “… keep Canada strong, free and democratic.”
September is far from over says Labour Council President, Kevin Smith. “A diverse and committed gathering of social activists will take place in South Bruce Peninsula on September 20th as the community refuses to stand by while the government and Canada’s richest corporations hoard wealth, gut our public services, fuel climate change, attack immigrants, exploit Indigenous lands and prop up a genocide in Palestine”.
On the same date, CUPE Local 5058 is continuing the month with powerful statements that workers and people will be heard and that public services will not be gutted.
“This is Worth Fighting For” draws attention to public service underfunding and how, as a result, children and families are falling through the cracks,” says Labour Council VP for Bruce County, Dave Trumble.
“Are they done yet?” says Labour Council VP for Grey, Chris Stephen. “Not at all. September 30th is recognized as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. Canadians will honour the children who never returned home from residential schools and acknowledging the experiences of survivors and their families. This day is the day to wear orange.”
The following months may appear to be quieter, but be assured that trade unionists, social activists and citizens across Canada will stand firm. Just to point to one item in October – the Labour Council will host the celebration of activism on the 4th Monday of October.
In Bruce County, a family fun day is also set at the Tiverton Community Centre on September 20th.
