As the holidays are fast approaching, I can’t help but think about the stories and tales we share with one another. Often, these tales reveal profound truths about our world. One story resonates deeply with me: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Published in 1843, this story tackles themes that, unfortunately, are still relevant today.
A Christmas Carol tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly, insensitive businessman who rediscovers the values of generosity and mutual support after a visit from three spirits. These ghosts help him realize that he must change his ways. Above all, Dickens paints a striking portrait of the working-class conditions of his time. Bob Cratchit, Scrooge’s humble clerk, already overworked and underpaid, is forced to work over Christmas, toiling tirelessly all while struggling to provide for his family.
This story remains relevant to this day. Bob Cratchit’s reality reflects that of countless workers who, even today, here and all over the world, struggle for fair wages and dignified working conditions. This systemic problem cannot be solved by the goodwill of individuals like Scrooge alone. Real change requires workers to unite and take collective action. If Bob Cratchit had been protected by a union, Scrooge wouldn’t have needed visits from ghosts to humanize his boss and secure the fairness he deserved.
By choosing to unite, we give ourselves the tools to improve our working conditions and protect our hard-earned gains. Together, we embody the values of sharing and mutual support that Dickens illustrates in his tale. Every union victory is a step toward a more equitable future for our families and communities.
As we prepare to gather and celebrate with our loved ones, let us remember that the spirit of Christmas is not limited to sporadic, individual acts of generosity. On the contrary, it calls us to continue our collective fight for a better world. We don’t have Christmas ghosts to magically eliminate inequalities and injustices. No, they disappear only through our commitment, determination and action.
On behalf of all Teamsters in Canada, I wish you a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, rest and happiness, and a Happy New Year, full of health, success and solidarity.
François Laporte
President of Teamsters Canada
Vice President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters
Each month, François Laporte, President of Teamsters Canada, comments on the labour news cycle in a series of columns called Leading the Way. Join him as he discusses the issues facing Canadian workers from coast to coast.
