We want to start by saying this clearly: we are having strong, honest conversations with so many of you in Edmonton, and it has been incredibly encouraging to reaffirm the support that already exists across the workplace.

Organizing Starts with You

Every successful organizing drive is built worker to worker. Not posters, not meetings, not outside voices. It comes from you talking to each other. We understand that these conversations can feel uncomfortable at times, but they are essential. It is the only way we build the level of support required to move forward with an application for certification.

What Unifor Means for YEG

We have been asked what Unifor can do for YEG. The answer is simple. Together, you can do a great deal.

Joining with other WestJet airport workers across the country as part of Unifor, Canada’s largest private sector union, gives you the collective strength to move in the same direction. That means pushing for higher wages, improved working conditions, and enforceable standards that apply across not just WestJet but for all aviation workers.

Why Division Works for the Employer

Right now, WestJet under Onex benefits from keeping workers separated. That division allows them to play one group against another, including using Edmonton against gains being fought for in Calgary, Vancouver, and Toronto during upcoming bargaining.

The Reality of Union Density

Those arguing that there is no benefit to joining the union are taking a very narrow view. They ignore what union density actually delivers. Look across WestJet. Pilots, Flight Attendants, Dispatchers, Crew Schedulers, Customer Service Agents in airports, and Contact Centre workers are all moving toward or already within union representation.

It raises a fair question. Is everyone else wrong, or are a few loud voices in Edmonton trying to control the conversation?

Addressing Intimidation

We have also experienced an incident from an Edmonton customer service agent confronting our YVR member organizer telling him that “he should be ashamed of himself for coming to this base to talk about the union advantage.” That kind of behaviour does not strengthen a workplace. It reflects intimidation, not leadership. Workers deserve the space to have informed, respectful discussions about their future.

A Stronger Voice Together

Unifor is the leading voice for airline workers in Canada. More importantly, it is a vehicle for workers to stand together and set the standard for what this industry should look like.

The Next Step

The next step is yours. Keep talking. Keep asking questions. And keep building toward something stronger together.

Your support is confidential.

Billy O'Neill
Unifor National Representative, Organizing
416.605.1443
billy.oneill@unifor.org

Lucy Alessio
Unifor National Coordinator, Organizing
416.998.3189
lucy.alessio@unifor.org