Across Canada this past weekend, workers marched in parades, attended community picnics and celebrated the contributions of the labour movement to their communities.

Labour Day has its historic roots in Canada. It began as a parade in support of striking printers fighting for an eight-hour day. From the beginning, it was a family-friendly event with flags, marching bands and banners.

It’s a fitting way to end the summer for families, including many this week who are grappling with all the stresses of back to school.

That’s because unions are dedicated to fighting for the entire family. When we go into negotiations for a new collective agreement, unions think about what you want for your workplace conditions, your family and communality.

One of the ways we do that is workplace surveys, which are used extensively across Unifor at the start of contract talks to gauge members’ priorities. Such surveys are personalized to each workplace.

Unifor is a member-driven union. Surveys are just one part of that. We also hold regular membership meetings and use every tool we can to communicate with members, about workplace and legislative issues that affect our members, and to hear what your needs and wants are.

Unifor locals participated in Labour Day celebrations across Canada. If you couldn’t make it this year, look for the parade or picnic in your community next year. We’d love to see you!

Oh, and the local union that got Labour Day started a century ago? They’re now part of Unifor, and participated in their local Labour Day parade again this year.

If you have any questions, or would like a Unifor membership card for you or a co-worker, please contact your Organizer.

Contact us! Talk to our organizing representatives! All calls are confidential.

Ontario
Billy O'Neill, Unifor
[email protected] | 416-605-1443

Quebec
Ada Zampini, Unifor
[email protected] | 514-701-6227

Prairies
Bruce Fafard, Unifor
[email protected] | 587-341-0945

British Columbia
Simon Lau, Unifor
[email protected] | 778-928-9630

Atlantic
Patrick Murray, Unifor
[email protected] | 506-850-7996