I begin by thanking USW District 3 members and local unions for putting your trust in me for another term as your Director. It’s an honour to do this work on behalf of our 44,000 members and retirees. I’m proud to continue this next chapter under the leadership of our International President-elect, Roxanne Brown. Roxanne has the passion, vision and commitment to move our union forward in challenging times and has the full support of our International Executive Board.
This fall, our District 3 School brought activists together from across the region to sharpen skills, build solidarity and prepare for the struggles ahead. On the picket lines, we saw the power of collective action. After 150 days, StellerVista Credit Union members ratified a three-year agreement. Rogers technicians in Abbotsford, B.C., continue their fight against corporate greed, demanding equal pay and fair treatment. Members at La-kwa sa muqw Forestry LP stood strong for stability and fairness as the company refused to honour the coast pattern collective agreement.
Daily, we face real challenges. The decision by Starbucks to close the unionized Alder Crossing store in Surrey, B.C., reeks of retaliation against workers for organizing and supporting each other. In our forestry sector, families are being hit hard by layoffs caused by tariffs, unstable markets and a lack of logs. In all our industries, we’re fighting Donald Trump’s unfair tariffs and economic chaos that threaten good jobs and communities in both countries.
At the same time, we can be optimistic. The proposed Teck–Anglo American merger offers hope for the future for more than 2,500 USW members at Highland Valley Copper mine and the Trail smelter. With new ownership, InterPro Pipe and Steel is building back and providing hope for our members in Regina and Calgary. In Manitoba, Premier Wab Kinew and the NDP are prioritizing workers, pushing for fair wages, strong public services and respect on the job.
In 2026, I know we will stand together to fight, build power and win more for USW members and workers everywhere.
In solidarity,
Scott Lunny
USW District 3 Director,
This article appears in the Winter 2025 issue of USW@Work magazine.
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