As this year comes to an end, I am wishing each and every Steelworker and their loved ones a happy, restful and joyous holiday season. Our union is made up of members from every continent and nearly every country in the world – celebrating all different traditions – and I wish to extend happy holidays to all who are celebrating at this time of year.
I appreciate the ways that this diversity makes our union stronger and how we can learn from each other all year long.
While we have made many gains legislatively and at the bargaining table, I know this year has been a challenging one for many. Workers have been grappling with the soaring costs of living, the unpredictability caused by climate change, while multiple wars devastate members’ homelands where family members still remain. None of us can be left unmoved by these hardships and atrocities. Peace and the right to a safe home, a decent job and kindness are top of mind as we head into the holidays.
This year, we have worked to build up our union and each other as we have taken on many challenges and won. The efforts of Steelworkers and community partners in bringing us together on a variety of issues inspire me. It is this note of optimism that I take with me into the final days of 2023 and into 2024. We work together for a fairer, more sustainable economy that puts workers and their families’ needs at the centre, while advocating loudly and proudly for equity and human rights – on the job and at the bargaining table, in our communities and around the globe.
Wishing you a merry holiday season and a happy start to 2024.
Marty Warren
National Director
United Steelworkers union
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