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Unifor’s second Canadian Council filled the main hall at the beautiful Palais des Congrès in Montreal with designs to build better jobs and better communities.
The energy of the nearly 1,200 delegates and staff was evident throughout the weekend as people spoke about the importance of the upcoming federal election.
“We talked about the challenges we face as a labour movement, but we also had so many moments where we celebrated our victories,” said Unifor National President Jerry Dias.
“We’ve had historic organizing successes and we’ve changed people’s lives through bargaining better agreements. Our next big challenge is to make sure we have a new Prime Minister on October 19!”
The two-and-a-half day council was marked by distinguished guest speakers including Retired Lieutenant General Roméo Dallaire, UAW President Dennis Williams, Aboriginal children’s rights activist Dr. Cindy Blackstock, and $15 minimum wage activist Anggie Godoy from Los Angeles.
“Before the minimum wage went up [to $15], I wasn’t thinking about college because I couldn’t afford it, but at the end of this month, I’ll be a college student,” said Godoy. “We don’t want this money for luxuries, we need it to support ourselves.”
The role of women activists was highlighted with a panel on women in electoral politics. NDP Members of Parliament Ruth Ellen Brosseau and Peggy Nash, and Equal Voice Executive Director Nancy Peckford spoke about the need for women to put themselves on the ballot.
“You may think you need more time or another course or more expertise, but I’m here to tell you that you don’t – you have what it takes right now,” Peckford said. “Too many women hesitate, but if you feel called to lead, go down that path.”
Bilan Arte of the Canadian Federation of Students and Brigette DePape from the Council of Canadians spoke about the need for young people to vote, and be outspoken with friends and family about voting.
Delegates marched through the streets of Montreal to push for an end to the Harper Government, and in support of locked out Garda workers.
