This spring, USW District 6 Director Kevon Stewart travelled to Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico, to participate in the 19th annual remembrance march with Los Mineros, the National Union of Mine, Steel, and Allied Workers of the Mexican Republic. What Stewart witnessed was a powerful reminder of the urgent need for international labour solidarity – and the price many workers have to pay for justice.
“Being there brought into a sharp focus what we often take for granted in Canada,” Stewart shared. “In Mexico, union activists risk their lives to defend basic rights. The memory of two lives lost during a peaceful protest – due to government and military interference – was a chilling reminder of what workers still face around the world.”
The march drew over 5,000 people – families, workers and allies – marching to commemorate and demand change. For Stewart, the energy was familiar but also deeply humbling. “It felt surreal,” he said. “Despite being in another country, the issues – fair wages, respect, recognition – were the same. It reminded me why we fight. You shouldn’t be in this movement if you’re not fully engaged in that struggle.”
During the accompanying workshops, Stewart was struck by a video depicting the fatal conflict nearly two decades ago. “They showed footage of union members retrieving their comrades’ bodies in the face of state violence – I’ll never forget it. It’s the rawest expression of what solidarity means.”
USW’s bond with Los Mineros runs deep, rooted in a shared commitment to justice. Years ago, USW provided refuge to Los Mineros’ leader, Napoleon Gomez, during political persecution. Today, that bond has become a formal alliance for global worker rights.
“Global solidarity isn’t optional – it’s essential,” Stewart emphasized. “If unions operate in silos, the corporations win. We must combine our strength across borders to challenge exploitation and raise global standards.”
His message to Canadian members is clear: “We must never take our rights for granted. Workers in Mexico are putting their lives on the line. Their struggle is our struggle.”
As the fight continues, Stewart hopes more union leaders and members will engage in international work. “Solidarity is the lifeblood of the labour movement – and it must extend beyond borders.”
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