Labour Day message from CWA Canada President Martin O’Hanlon

Dear fellow CWA Canada members,

On this Labour Day weekend, please take a moment to think about how important the labour movement is for our society and our democracy, and what you can do to make the world a better place.

For well over a century, the labour movement has led the struggle – and it has been a hell of a struggle – to make life better for the common people.

It is thanks to the labour movement that we have so much we often take for granted, from decent wages to the five-day workweek, pensions, health coverage, on and on.

These gains, which built the middle class, spurred the economy, and strengthened our democracy, took decades to achieve and if we don’t keep up the struggle, we will lose them.

In the age of Trump, our colleagues in the U.S. are under renewed attack as some immoral politicians and corporations try to turn back the clock, cutting wages, pensions, benefits and health care.

Even here in Canada, we face serious challenges. Right now, we are fighting Postmedia’s attempt to cut pensions and benefits as it funnels tens of millions of dollars to its hedge fund masters and pays big bonuses to corporate executives. And we see our government embracing bad free-trade deals and public-private partnerships that benefit corporations over the people.

At CWA Canada, we are standing on guard this Labour Day – and always – to defend quality jobs and quality journalism.

This weekend, whether you are working or relaxing with friends or family, please stand with us and take a moment to think about what you can do to help. Let’s fight the good fight together!

In solidarity,

Martin O’Hanlon
President, CWA Canada