This year’s National Aboriginal Day is unlike any other we have celebrated before. It’s clear: celebrating Aboriginal peoples means taking action for social justice.
Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission has shown us, in plain language and powerful detail, how residential schools tried to destroy Aboriginal identity and cultures. I have a copy of the Commission’s final report on my desk, because like most non-Aboriginal Canadians, I need to learn more about the history and the on-going impact.
Now the government of Ontario has officially apologized for its role in residential schools, and has committed to take action to improve the lives of Aboriginal people.
We all need to contribute to reconciliation: making amends for the past and building a better tomorrow. I’m proud to be part of a union that is committed to working with Aboriginal members and Aboriginal communities. For the past year, District 6 members and staff have worked hard on the reference group for USW’s Aboriginal Issues Project. I salute their efforts, as I salute all who are working to bring justice and security into the lives of Aboriginal peoples.
Let’s celebrate First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples by ensuring their cultures, communities and families thrive and prosper.
In solidarity,
KAMLOOPS, B.C. – United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 7619 has issued 72-hour strike notice to Teck’s Highland Valley Copper (HVC) operation near Logan Lake, B.C., following unsuccessful negotiations to reach a fair collective agreement. The notice was served Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 6:30 p.m., with the union preparing for potential strike action if an agreement […]
The jobs of thousands of USW members have been plunged into uncertainty due to U.S. tariffs, outsourcing and offshoring. In 2025, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund (SHF) has supported initiatives that help build union-to-union solidarity, which is critical to ensuring workers have a voice. Over the years, the USW has supported the efforts of the Mexican […]
Scott Lunny, United Steelworkers Director for Western Canada, released the following statement following the Alberta referendum vote: “Albertans have made their voices heard. They want to remain part of a strong, united Canada. Now it’s time to put division behind us and get back to work building a better future for working families. “It’s time […]