When USW Local 6200’s flag was raised at the Vale site in Port Colborne, it marked a proud and historic moment – the first time a Steelworkers’ flag has flown at one of the company’s operations. For Local President Wayne Johnson, the moment was more than symbolic; it represented months of persistence, collaboration and the shared commitment of workers and management to mutual respect and safety.
The idea came from Local 6200 Vice-President Mark Lacroix during a casual conversation. Drawing from his experiences at Stelco, where USW flags proudly fly at both the Hamilton and Lake Erie sites, Johnson saw an opportunity to bring that same spirit of visibility and unity to Vale.
“It started as a small idea,” he said, “but it became something meaningful for our members.”
Getting approvals took roughly five months of patient persuasion. Johnson raised the idea at a monthly labour-management meeting with Plant Manager Nadeem Kahn.
“It’s not as simple just putting up a flag,” he explained. “There are national flag specifications, approvals and installation logistics.”
After several discussions and some good-natured persistence – including securing a double-sided flag after an initial mix up – the team made it happen. The local even committed to replacing the flag annually to keep it flying proudly.
When the USW flag was finally raised, Johnson said he felt immense pride.
“It was exciting to be the first Vale site to do it. It reminded everyone that we’re part of something bigger – an international union that’s united and strong.”
The response from members was overwhelmingly positive.
“People came up and thanked us,” Johnson shared. “It re-energized our members and sparked new interest in union meetings.”
For Johnson, the moment symbolized more than a flag on a pole – it was a reminder of solidarity. It shows that unions and companies can put differences aside and work toward common goals like safety and respect.
As he looks ahead, Johnson hopes other Vale sites and local unions will follow suit.
“We’ve set the groundwork,” he said. “Now it’s time for others to raise their flags too.”
If you’re interested in flying a USW flag at your workplace or would like more information, reach out to your staff representative for support.
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