More than ever, the contribution of workers to the economy and our well-being must be highlighted in the context of the pandemic that we have been experiencing for seven weeks now.
International Workers’ Day, which is celebrated on May 1st of each year, is the ideal time to highlight the courage, dedication and involvement of millions of men and women across Canada.
The labour struggles that began more than a century ago in the West, including the introduction of the 8-hour workday, the ban on child labour and union recognition, continue today.
The COVID-19 pandemic tells us that there are still important battles to be fought, especially for workers who are on the front lines right now, who are caring for our seniors, working in businesses or delivering food in grocery stores and medical products in hospitals.
More than ever, a union presence is needed for millions of workers in Canada and for the community at large. I salute them today on behalf of the 125,000 members of Teamsters Canada for the remarkable work they do at all times and especially in these difficult times.
In Solidarity,
François Laporte
President of Teamsters Canada
Vice President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters