To: Alberta Local Unions, Alberta Staff
From: Scott Lunny
Re: Alberta NDP Leadership Race
USW is a strong, proud, and historical affiliate of the New Democratic Party. Leaders of the USWA (including the IWA and TWU, both of which merged to build today’s USW) were there when the party was formed. Our union knows the importance of and deeply values our political activism. That includes playing an active role in our party as an affiliated organization and as individual NDP members.
USW District 3 has supported the Alberta NDP at unprecedented levels under the leadership of Rachel Notley: a Woman of Steel. USW activists have participated in elections through “Steelworkers Vote” and lobbied for our members, with the support of the ANDP both in government and opposition.
The change of leaders at this point in Alberta’s political history is a major decision for our party. As Steelworkers, our goal is to continue the Alberta NDP’s electoral success and to protect and expand our party’s commitment to worker rights and labour values.
On April 4, 2024, we met with the five declared candidates and leaders from USW District 3 and our Alberta locals. All candidates participated strongly. It is particularly important to acknowledge the level of knowledge and quality of discussion on labour issues. I firmly believe this is attributable to AFL President Gil McGowan’s presence in the race at that time.
The quality of the candidates has led USW Local Unions to have confidence in several candidates. Locals have endorsed Sarah Hoffman and Naheed Nenshi. Another local has declined to endorse anyone at all. This demonstrates active debate in our union and, importantly, participation in our party.
USW District 3 will continue to engage with and in the Alberta NDP. We will continue to advocate that worker rights, labour values and union affiliation remain as foundations of the NDP, while focusing on taking us back into government in Alberta.
In solidarity,
Scott Lunny
Director
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