Local elections and their advance voting are underway across B.C. and for Steelworkers, the people who get elected in our communities matters, deeply.
In the resource communities where thousands of our members live and work, municipal governments make decisions that affect our jobs, families and communities. Strong local leaders can be our champions for forestry, mining and manufacturing. They support good union jobs and invest in the infrastructure and public services that our communities depend on.
Local governments also have a role to play in making our workplaces safer.
For years, the United Steelworkers has led our Stop the Killing, Enforce the Law campaign, calling for greater enforcement of the Westray amendments to the Criminal Code when workplace deaths and serious injuries result from criminal negligence.
Municipal councils can support this work by calling for proper training and direction for police and prosecutors, supporting resolutions demanding enforcement of the Westray Law and making it clear that workplace deaths must be investigated with the same seriousness as any other potential crime.
No worker should be killed on the job because an employer failed to put safety first.
Steelworkers are stepping up
This year, many Steelworkers are putting their names forward for public office in communities across B.C. Some of these include:
We’re proud to see Steelworkers bringing the values of our union to local government.
And they aren’t alone. Labour councils across B.C. have endorsed candidates for mayor, council, school board and other local offices who understand the issues facing working people. Click here to see a full list of candidates endorsed by the Canadian Labour Congress.
Now it’s our turn to participate.
General Voting Day is Saturday, October 17, and advance voting opportunities are starting now in communities across the province. Voting dates, times and locations vary, so check your local government’s website and make your plan to vote.
You can also find labour-endorsed candidates in your community through the Canadian Labour Congress.
Let’s protect our jobs, our workplaces and our communities. Steelworkers vote.
In solidarity,
Scott Lunny
Director
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