1285 NEWS - What New Free Trade Rules Mean For Canada's Autoworkers - please see pages 9-12 - Unifor 1285
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1285 NEWS OCTOBER 2018 What New Free Trade Rules Mean For Canada’s Autoworkers – please see pages 9–12
Unifor Local 1285
Executive Officers’ Report
This has truly been a great summer and we’ve had some heat waves to go with it,
but like everything else all good things must come to an end so we now turn to
enjoying the beauty of fall.
Carabram 2018
Back by popular demand, After a one year hiatus in 2017, this year we once
again hosted the Canadian pavilion here at our Local during the dates of July JASPAL VITO DANNY
13, 14 and 15. We had a full agenda for the whole weekend which included BRAR BEATO PRICE
LOCAL 1285 FIRST SECOND
aboriginal dancers, cloggers, line dancing, our own Local 1285 Back Bacon PRESIDENT VICE-PRESIDENT VICE-PRESIDENT
Band and of course our Newfoundland screeching in led by our own former
2 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWS
president Leon Rideout and
Financial Secretary Ardis Snow.
We heard many great comments
from the people attending that they
were happy to have us back and
part of Carabram again this year.
The weekend would not have been
possible if it wasn’t for the great
leadership and involvement from
our Local 1285 sisters Patty Johnston
and Debbie Lake. We also would
like to recognize all our Local 1285
supporters who came out to help
and participate during the weekend.
A special mention to Gary Ouellette
our MC for the weekend, and Michael Lake who was a great help through the
whole weekend.
Thank you to all the members and families who attended and participated.
OCTOBER 2018 3
Unifor Local 1285 Family Picnic year, which is always nice to hear. Thank you all for attending We had our Unifor Local 1285 Family Picnic at Canada’s and making this a fun day. Wonderland which provide us with great food and of course fun rides. This was such a success last year so it was decided to hold Labour Day Parade the picnic at the same location, we had another great turnout This was the fifth year anniversary celebration of Unifor. It and we were once again lucky to have great weather. (Thank you was five years ago when two Canadian Unions (CAW and CEP) Mother Nature) We had great feedback from everyone again this merged to form Unifor. Traditionally the Toronto Labour Day
OCTOBER 2018 5
Parade commenced at Toronto City Hall and we would make
our way to the CNE Grounds. Due to a couple of factors such as
Unifor not being part of the CLC and there was a strike at the
CNE and we did not want to cross the picket line, it was decided
that this year Unifor would have the normal parade and then go
to Queen’s Quay. The National Union had three huge boats for a
cruise, the weather was fabulous and lunch was provided on the
cruise. After lunch we had the perfect view of the airshow and it
also allowed us all to come together and meet instead of everyone
just dispersing, as in the past, when we reached the CNE
Grounds. Perhaps it was the attraction of the boat cruise but the
turnout was much larger than in the past. Our Local had buses
leave in the morning to city hall for the start of the parade. We
are proud to say these buses were from Parkview driven by our
proud bus driver members from Parkview. We also would like to
thank the Youth Committee for all their help in building the float
prior to the parade. We must mention the dedication of the Youth
Committee for not leaving the float at the end of the parade and
staying with the float to remove all our belongings, in doing so
these members missed the boat cruise. This is true dedication to
their Local and much appreciated.
Thank You Youth Committee.
Every Child Matters
Every Child Matters is recognized each September 30th and
has grown from Phyllis Webstad’s story of how she went to school
wearing her new orange shirt. This was removed from her along
with other clothing and she didn’t understand why and then
never wore that shirt again.
September 30th has been declared Orange Shirt Day annually
in recognition of the harm done by the Residential Schools to the
self-esteem of children. It’s an opportunity to educate everyone of
anti-racism and anti-bullying policies and gives teachers time to
plan events which include children.
Your Local had ordered some Orange Shirts to sell at a
discounted price, these became such a seller that we ran out and
had to reorder more shirts!
Unifor Local 1285 Retirees BBQ
On September 19th 2018 we had our annual Retirees BBQ
lunch which was also their regular meeting. It was inspiring to
see our retirees show up in large numbers and have a great time
while at the same time allowing us an opportunity to serve them
up with a nice BBQ Lunch. Our Retirees are the foundation of
our union and we will always appreciate and remember all their
past struggles.
6 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWS
Strike at Gander, Newfoundland
On September 25th 2018 there was a mass protest in Gander,
Newfoundland against a scumbag of an employer D.J. Composite.
Hundreds of Unifor members came together from across Canada
to support 30 members who at that point had been on the picket
line for 646 days. Local 1285 proudly participated and supported
a number of members who took time out of their busy lives to
travel and participate in the Gander action.
Unifor has taken a zero tolerance towards companies that defy
the bargaining process and replace workers with scab labour. It
doesn’t matter if you work at a plant with hundreds of employees
or one with 30 workers such as D.J Composite. We cannot allow
any scab labour as it opens the door for more employers to just
undercut the current workers and replace them with cheaper
labour. This American based employer had total disregard for the
collective agreement and the bargaining process. These workers
did not go out on strike, the employer locked them out during
the early stages of bargaining, ignoring labour laws, replacing all
of them with local scab labour and refusing all attempts by the
union to come back to the bargaining table for 650-plus days.
We as a Union cannot allow employers of any size to replace
workers with scab labour or all of our jobs are in jeopardy of
being replaced. Because of this action in Gander, D.J Composite
finally agreed to going to binding arbitration. Let’s hope a fair
agreement can be reached and these workers and families can go
into the Christmas season feeling positive about the upcoming
New Year. Everyone who participated from coast to coast should
be commended on a job well done and all employers should take
notice that this behaviour will not be tolerated by Unifor.
Here is a note from one of the locked-out members of Local
597 in Gander:
Hey Danny, just wanted to let you and Vito know that the
OCTOBER 2018 7
company has agreed to binding arbitration. This would not have Election At Martin Brower
occurred without your support and the support of the other Locals We would like to thank everyone who participated in the
that came to our line. Please thank your Local on our behalf most recent election at Martin Brower. It takes a lot of courage
for helping in our time of need. I was glad that i met you and and dedication to put your name on a ballot. It is important we
your sons prior to this action because it gave us the connection encourage and support all members who are interested in getting
to become more than just unifor brothers, i would consider both involved in our union. Congratulations to all the members who
Vito and yourself two of my newest friends. Again thank you for were elected and acclaimed at Martin Brower.
everything that you have done. I will try to get something a little We want to take this opportunity to congratulate your
more formal done to thank your Local in the coming weeks. chairperson Mark Brownridge on his acclamation. This is not
Sincerely, the first time he has been acclaimed and it truly shows that the
Mike membership recognizes and appreciates all the hard work that
Mark has done and will continue to do. On behalf of Local 1285
You Are Not Alone Congratulations Mark and keep up the good work.
Suicide Prevention Awareness week was recognised during
September 10th through to September 16th 2018, our Local also Justin Minello – Local Organizer
participated by purchasing the “You Are Not Alone” T-Shirts We are pleased to announce the appointment of Justin Minello
and sold them to our members at a discounted price. We had a to a Unifor National position with the Organizing Department
lot of our members proudly wear them to raise awareness and effective October 1st 2018. Justin did good work here at our
show support for those who need it. We thank everyone for their Local and also alongside the National Organizing Department.
support for this important weeklong initiative. It didn’t take long for our National to recognize his hard work
ethic and skill. He is a proud Local 1285 member and when the
CLC National appoints one of our members to a position it highlights
At the Canadian Council which took place on August 17th the strength of our Local.
to 19th it was decided by majority support to continue Unifor’s We would like to congratulate Justin in his new role and look
disaffiliation from the CLC. Our union will stand with workers forward to continued work with Justin in his new position and
of Canada and give them the right to choose their own union. role with the National Organizing Department. Once again
The CLC needs to ensure workers have a democratic right and Congrats Justin !!!
that Canadian members of an international union maintain their
autonomy. It was also agreed that Unifor continues to seek a NAFTA
fair and meaningful resolution to this dispute with the CLC and Please see the message from Unifor National President Jerry
affiliates. Dias which begins on the page opposite.
In Solidarity,
Jaspal Brar, Vito Beato and Danny Price
8 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWS
Message from Jerry Dias
Over the past year, Canada, the United States and Mexico undertook a process to renegotiate the North American Free Trade
Agreement (or NAFTA). Since 1994, NAFTA has proven to be a bad trade deal for working people, especially for autoworkers.
Fixing NAFTA’s rules – imagining different models and outcomes for trade - has been a long-
standing desire of our union. Unifor approached this renegotiation as a once-in-a-generation
opportunity to expose the problems with NAFTA and similar bad trade deals. We also
approached this renegotiation by putting forward new ideas and trade provisions designed to
help – not hurt – workers and communities.
Our goal was to reimagine what fair trade deals could look like in the 21st century. During this
renegotiation process, U.S. President Donald Trump posed an unimaginable threat: major
tariffs on Canadian cars and parts exports. For reasons of both history and geography,
Canada’s auto industry is closely tied to the U.S. Virtually everything we export is destined for
sale in the U.S. market. The mere threat of U.S. tariffs on Canada’s auto sector raised serious
questions over future investments and product planning in Canadian facilities.
As you know, a new continental trade deal has been struck – the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (or USMCA). It is
not an ideal trade agreement by any stretch, nor is it a model of the sort of progressive trade we need in Canada. In fact, it
includes elements that should be of concern to Canadians. Unifor will continue its work, advocating for trade policy that puts
workers and communities first.
Nevertheless, in certain key areas, this new agreement is an improvement on the original NAFTA, including on rules governing
auto trade, and that is in part because of the direct role our union played.
The new USMCA overhauls the rules governing auto trade in North America. Automakers are required to meet far stricter “Made
in North America” rules for cars and parts, in order to sell these products tariff-free across borders. Automakers will also be
required to build a portion of their cars and parts in high-wage facilities (instead of simply exploiting the wages of Mexican
workers, earning as low as $1 USD per hour), a measure designed to safeguard work in US and Canadian facilities.
Most importantly, the new USMCA effectively eliminates the threat of U.S.-imposed auto tariffs on Canada. Should the United
States choose to impose national security tariffs on cars and parts in the coming months, up to 2.6 million vehicles and $32
billion worth of auto parts exports, will face no penalty. To put this in perspective, Canada exported 1.8 million vehicles to the
United States in 2017, and just less than 2.2 million at our peak. We feel confident to have secured protections for all existing
capacity, as well as future growth in the industry. I can safely say that our union helped secure the strongest possible terms of
protection against potential U.S. auto tariffs.
Let me be clear: these new trade rules, alone, will not deliver needed investments to our auto facilities, nor will they secure our
wages, benefits and jobs. They are a welcome improvement, not a solution. As many analysts predict, our industry is prone for a
downturn – one we hope is limited. Our job, as always, is to use our collective power and solidarity to ensure Canadian
autoworkers – those inside and even those outside our union – have good jobs and a stable future within this vital industry.
More information on the USMCA will be made available in the coming weeks. For additional details about the new terms of auto
trade, visit: www.unifor.org/peoplestrade.
Thank you for your ongoing support and solidarity.
Jerry Dias,
Unifor National President
OCTOBER 2018 9
The need for fairer North American auto trade
Since 1994, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) laid out the ground rules for auto trade across the
continent. It enabled auto companies to sell vehicles and parts tariff-free across Canadian, U.S. and Mexican
borders. These rules also enabled auto companies to reorient their supply chains and, in some cases, relocate
production. Often, lucrative investments were made in areas of the continent (most notably throughout Mexico)
where wages and other production costs were lowest. These NAFTA rules imposed modest requirements on the
automakers, including loose “Made in North America” content rules – but contained no guarantees of investment or
future production in Canada.
It is no surprise that under NAFTA, Canada’s auto production declined. After an immediate jump in production and
exports between 1994 and 1999 (driven partly by a low Canadian dollar and local production demands of the
previous Canada-US Auto Pact agreement) Canadian auto
Vehicle Production in Canada assembly and parts production took a downward turn.
(1988-2017)
3500000 3,056,983
Canada today has 45,000 fewer auto assembly and parts
3000000
(1999 peak year)
2,194,003 jobs than in 1999. Our output of vehicles has declined,
(2017 current)
2500000 Total production 2,172,289 dropping from a historic high of over 3 million to just over
2000000
1,852,298
2 million per year. What’s worse, there has been a series of
1500000
1000000
devastating auto plant closures in communities, including
Passenger car exports to US
500000 Ste. Therese (General Motors), St. Thomas (Ford), Windsor
1989
1988
0 1,017,028
1,027,693
947,103
948,818
1,964,131
1,976,511
(GM Transmission), Oshawa (GM Truck), Kitchener
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
(Kitchener Frame) and elsewhere.
1987 809,818 825,641 1,635,459
1986 1,061,738 791,209 1,852,947
In fact, nine of the last 11 new North American auto assembly plants were located in Mexico – where many workers
lack access to an independent union, and where wages are as low as $1 USD per hour.
Share of North American Auto Manufacturing Jobs Share of North American Auto Sales
6% 6% 9%
45%
49% 83%
Canada United States Mexico Canada United States Mexico
New rules for auto trade under the USMCA
At the onset of NAFTA talks, Unifor put forward a set of recommendations to restructure the terms of auto trade in
North America. Our vision was to create a trade model that not only expanded “Made in North America” rules (set
at 62.5%, or two-thirds, of car content in NAFTA) but also prevented auto companies from freely shifting
production to jurisdictions with poor labour standards and low-wages, without consequence.
In various ways, the new USMCA reflects both of these objectives.
For starters, “Made in North America” content rules have been raised from 62.5% to 75%. This means that any
car shipped tariff-free between Canada, the U.S. or Mexico must contain three-quarters of North American content.
Non-North American parts content (e.g. from Korea or China) are not counted toward this 75%.
10 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWSAdditionally, “Made in North America” rules will apply to an expanded list of individual component parts
categories – including engines, transmissions, brakes, steering wheels – rules that are far more comprehensive
than the previous NAFTA. These
content rules will range between
50-75%, depending on the type of
component part and will now
include requirements on the use of
North American steel and aluminum
in car production.
Finally, and for the first time in any
Canadian trade agreement, car
companies must demonstrate that
40% of a car’s content (45% for
trucks) contains products sourced
from high-wage facilities in North
America. Front-line workers
(excluding management) must be paid an average of $16 USD per hour (this equates to over $20 per hour in
Canadian dollars, at the current exchange rate). Car companies can earn credits for up to 15% on this new ‘Labour
Value Content’ for both existing research, development and information technology work as well as high volume
powertrain facilities.
In addition, new labour standards embedded in the USMCA Labour Chapter aim to frustrate the use of so-called
“protection contracts” in Mexico – collective agreements negotiated undemocratically between companies and fake
labour unions, without the approval of workers.
It is too early to tell how effective these new rules will be in growing Canada’s auto and parts production footprint. It
is also not clear if these terms will discourage firms from relocating work to low-wage jurisdictions (and maintaining
work in Canada). However, these provisions mark an unprecedented shift in the terms of auto trade.
Securing our trade relations with the United States
The threat of U.S.-imposed trade penalties on Canada hovered over the NAFTA talks like a dark cloud. The
possibility that Canadian car and parts exports to the U.S. could be subject to national security tariffs (reportedly as
high as 25%) was a clear and present danger to the future of Canada’s auto industry, and auto-dependent
communities in Southern Ontario. Multiple studies projected an economic disaster scenario for Canada and
Ontario, involving major production slowdowns, massive direct and indirect job losses, and uncertainty over future
investment decisions.
It was imperative for Unifor that any trade deal struck include protections for Canada’s auto industry against any
tariffs the U.S. may impose. Canada received this protection in the form of a side letter, exempting Canadian cars,
trucks and parts exports to the U.S. from these potential tariffs.
Canadian exports of trucks will receive a full exemption from tariffs, whereas cars and parts will be exempt up to
a pre-determined threshold. For parts, the threshold is set at $32.4 billion USD per year and for passenger
vehicles, the threshold is 2.6 million units.
To understand these figures, it is important to consider:
OCTOBER 2018 11• The U.S. has not yet imposed tariffs on cars and parts, and still may not. This USMCA side letter serves as
an “insurance policy” for Canada, in the event that tariffs are imposed;
• Should tariffs be imposed, the threshold for Canadian vehicle exports is set at a level far higher than Canada
has ever exported to the U.S. in a single year (at peak production years in 1999, Canada exported slightly
less than 2.2 million vehicles to the U.S. Today we export approximately 1.8 million);
• Similarly, the threshold for parts is far in excess of what Canada currently ships to the U.S.
A full and permanent exemption would have been the ideal scenario for Canada, but the terms of this side letter are
sufficient to ensure that not only will no Canadian vehicle or part export be subject to tariffs, but that our industry
can continue to grow (and capacity can expand) without fear or concern.
That said, a stronger and more vibrant auto industry won’t just happen on its own. The terms of the USMCA are an
improvement, not a total solution. We must be keenly aware that nothing in the USMCA guarantees our future.
After years of steady growth, the North American auto industry is bracing for a slowdown – as the market cools and
production levels decline. Our union has to remain vigilant in defending this critical industry, demanding a
comprehensive jobs and industrial strategy designed to grow our production footprint, and to defend the interests of
all autoworkers and auto communities in Canada.
Next steps
Signing the new USMCA trade pact would set in place radically different rules governing auto trade and other
provisions – far different from the trade agreements Canada currently has in place. Our union has committed to
building a fairer, more progressive and just model for trade – and that means overhauling not just auto rules, but all
rules. The new USMCA contains provisions that should be applied in other trade deals.
However, there are other outcomes of the USMCA that are of
major concern. For instance, new intellectual property rules
threaten to drive up the cost of medicines for Canadians.
Expanded import quotas for dairy products will create significant
competitive challenges for farmers. Ongoing U.S. tariffs applied to
Canadian steel and aluminum exports continue to harm workers
and communities.
Unifor must continue its work, advocating for a radically different,
progressive, just and development-centred trade model. Unifor
must ensure that all workers benefit equally from trade. We can
do this by advancing our national People’s Trade campaign, by campaigning to stop bad trade agreements like the
soon-to-be-introduced Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and
building bridges of active solidarity with our sisters and brothers in the United States, Mexico and elsewhere.
Designed by
EW:CFU
12 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWSSeveral New Labour Studies Programs
We have several new Unifor-McMaster • The End of Auto Production in held on Tuesdays from
Labour Studies programs offered this fall. Australia: What lessons can we learn? 4:30-7:30.
Tuition costs for FCA workers are covered Will be held on Monday November 26th The subjects are:
through our negotiated tuition refund from 6:30 -9:30 pm. Food, the Environment
program. Former CAW-Unifor economist Jim and Workers Power, and
Video Conference courses are held at Stanford has been living in Australia Understanding Mexico:
the Local 1285 Union Hall, and link us where he has been studying the The Struggle for Social BILL
with students in other locations around Australian auto industry. What lessons Change. TURNER
RECORDING
the province, such as Windsor, Oshawa, can we learn from the demise of BAP Benefits SECRETARY
St. Catharines, Hamilton, Ingersoll and Australian auto? Jim shares his thoughts Representative and
Oakville on the subject. Trustee, Lisa Contini,
• The Rise of Insecure Work: What can • Is there a New Cold War Against is currently arranging for another of the
be done? Russia? extremely popular and useful “Planning
Will be held on Monday November 12th Will be held Monday December 3rd for Retirement” seminars to be held at the
& Monday November 19th from 6:30 – from 6:30 -9:30 pm. Union Hall in early January.
9:30 pm. There are also two four-session courses The Provincial Government is
scrapping the legislation that would
Audited Statements Completed have increased the minimum wage
to $15 in our Province. The same
legislation being turfed contained several
Audited financial statements provisions for workers with precarious
have been completed. This employment. Minimum call-in pay,
year to date we have put aside hours of notification, sick days and such
$145,000. As of July 31st, are covered, for the most part, in our
2018, we have a net income collective agreements. Those who are not
of $189,420.98. As the festive fortunate enough to belong to a Union
season approaches, please take LISA WAYNE LAURIE are about to find out that it is not just the
care and watch your drinking CONTINI HUNTER FELLOWS minimum wage that is affected by the
TRUSTEE TRUSTEE TRUSTEE
and driving. We wish everyone a election of a conservative Government.
joyous season. Stay tuned. This should be an interesting
four years.
Balance Sheet (Cash Basis)
ASSETS April 2018 May 2018 June 2018
CASH
The Bank of Nova Scotia 375,927.08 513,387.06 231,255.19
Petty Cash 25.00 25.00 25.00
Royal Bank Security Bonds 582,551.08 582,551.08 582,551.08
Scotia Bank Savings Acct 275,347.40 295,567.91 300,571.06
Momentum Credit Union GIC 327,844.26 327,844.26 327,844.26
Scotia Bank GIC 500,000.00 500,000.00 500,000.00 ARDIS
Scotia Bank GIC 517,750.49 517,750.49 517,750.49 SNOW
TOTAL ASSETS $2,579,445.31 $2,737,125.80 $2,459,997.08 FINANCIAL
SECRETARY
LIABILITIES
CURRENT LIABILITIES
E.I. Payable 7,212.32 2,136.00 1,240.12
CPP Payable 3,160.06 5,563.90 2,718.78
Income Tax Payable 17,806.98 17,315.10 15,942.78
RECEIVER GENERAL PAYABLE 28,179.36 25,015.00 19,901.68
TOTAL LIABILITIES $28,179.36 $25,015.00 $19,901.68
EQUITY
General Fund 2,551,265.95 2,712,110.80 2,440,095.40
TOTAL EQUITY 2,551,265.95 2,712,110.80 2,440,095.40
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $2,579,445.31 $2,737,125.80 $2,459,997.08
OCTOBER 2018 13We’re In The Middle Of An Election Cycle
On June 7 a new provincial government was elected to power this could be the first shot across the bow for
in Ontario and it was a 180 percent change in direction for this working families.
province. We had another chance to decide who
For me, I see reflections of the U.S. in our election in Ontario. represents us, at Brampton City Hall on October
A far-right wing leader who comes from a wealthy family, never 22nd.
worked a day in his life saying he is the champion for working If you are concerned about better transit, fair
families. taxes, clean streets, efficient garbage collection, JIM
There are 13.6 million people living in this province and recreational centres and well-maintained roads MCDOWELL
UNION IN
only 2.3 million Ontario citizens voted for Doug Ford and the you should be concerned with who was elected POLITICS
Progressive Conservatives in this election. That means 17 percent to represent you at council. COMMITTEE
CO-CHAIR
of the population of this province voted in favour of this PC Sadly, in the last municipal election in Peel
government and they were able to form a majority government. region only 25 percent of eligible voters voted,
There is an old axiom “When you choose not to do anything, that means that 75 percent of voters decided not
it’s still a choice.” Unfortunately, a lot of the citizens of this to make a choice.
province made the choice not to vote on Having the wrong people on council
June 7th and that’s why the PC’s were able can trigger long term damage to our
to form the government. public services and infrastructure.
Premier Doug Ford told the legislature That’s why it’s so very important to get
on October 2, 2018, that he would scrap informed and to take the time to go
paid sick days, as provided in the Fair and vote.
Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, known as So, on October 22nd I hope you
Bill 148. made your voice heard and chose to
Paid sick days and the other reforms vote for the person who will work for
in the Act, from the legislated increase you.
in the minimum wage to $15 to unpaid This is how you can fight back and
personal emergency leave and regulations make a difference.
that protect wages when workers face Jim McDowell
contract flipping, are improvements for Unifor Local 1285
workers across the province. Union In Politics Committee
We really have no idea what is in store Co-Chair
for Ontario for the next four years but
An Exciting Year For The Youth Committee
Sisters, Brothers, Comrades and friends.. Exhibition, because we did not want Committee looks forward
l’m hopeful that you all enjoyed your to cross the picket lines. I’ve heard this to growing solidarity
summer lay-off, and made the best of it, was a great experience for all those who with other committees,
spending time with loved ones, catching attended. holding group meetings
up on house work/errands, – or simply Members were also able to get training and events, as we
just taking the time to relax, a luxury I and partake in campaign trails for the understand that only
know you all deserve. I hope everybody’s Provincial elections with some wins and through solidarity are we MATTHEW
E.I panned out in their favour, as I’d like some losses. We were able to get a few strong enough to fight NURSE
YOUTH
to take the time to thank our Benefits NDP seats in Queen’s Park, advancing for our common goals. COMMITTEE
Rep, Committee Reps, and the Leadership the hope for a progressive government We have the courage and CHAIRPERSON
for all the hard work they do in terms for both unionized and un-unionized aptitude to fight for the
of getting us the information we need workers. Although we claim our wins, we rights we believe in, and the rights that we,
and going above and beyond to help sort must accept the fact that Conservative, the membership, all deserve.
out any discrepancies. I know that E.I. Doug Ford claimed the premiership As always, I invite the membership to
registration is foreign to many new hires, of Ontario. Labour Laws and the get involved in committees, and attend
and young workers alike. Employment Standard Act are at risk General Membership and Unit meetings
The Youth Committee had quite an of being affected. This is why we are to voice their aspirations and concerns.
exciting year, we were able to secure a live actively reconstructing the Fight for 15/ Together, we are strong.
DJ for the Labour Day float and guided Make it Fair movements, to educate our Matthew Nurse
our brothers and sisters to an array of union family, and the community, on the Youth Chairperson
cruise boats for Unifor members, instead risks of allowing such atrocities to take
of ending the parade at the National place. Going forward, the whole Youth
14 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWSA Message From Jerry Dias And Lana Payne
Sisters and Brothers, thank for leading the members through
We are writing to share that once again these difficult times.
our union has proven that when united Our 30 members have shown the labour
we are unstoppable. D-J Composites movement what solidarity really means.
has agreed to our proposal for binding We also want to thank the incredible work
arbitration after our eight-day solidarity by our staff, in particular Scott Doherty
action at the Gander aerospace facility. to the picket line asked why Unifor would and Shane Wark, who lead bargaining
Two weeks ago, we put out the call for put so much time and resources into a with one of the worst employers Unifor
volunteers and hundreds of you dropped lockout of just 30 members? Our answer is has ever encountered.
everything to stand with 30 members we always defend our members, whether In recent months we have set a new
who have been on a picket line for 654 we represent 30 or 3000 in a workplace. standard for how we deal with scabs who
shameful days. Members from every When you attack one of us, you attack all dare cross our picket lines, months in
province in Canada stood with us against of us. Goderich, Thunder Bay
a union-busting American employer. Thank you to all who and now Gander. Together
Together we stopped the scabs and went to Gander and thank with our solidarity, Unifor
have ensured there will be an end to this you to those who fiercely has sent a powerful message
incredibly long dispute and our members supported our efforts on to all employers that scabs
will soon be returning to work. social media. will not be tolerated at
After eight days and an intervention We particularly want to any of our workplaces. We
from N.L. Premier Dwight Ball, D-J thank the members of Local have started a national
Composites accepted the fact that binding 597 for their courage and conversation about this
arbitration is the only solution to end this unwavering resolve over the and the need for anti-scab
dispute. past 21 months. They could legislation across Canada.
D-J Composites is now a scab free have easily walked away. Trust us when we tell you
workplace. Instead, they stared down our union is just getting
We are incredibly proud of our union their American employer and refused to started on this front.
and those of you who stood on this picket allow our union to be broken for 92 long In Solidarity,
line, 24-7 in Gander. A reporter who came weeks. We have Unit Chair Iggy Oram to Jerry Dias and Lana Payne
BRAIN TEASERS
Guess The Meaning
Family friends
BREAKING
Friends family
COM STOOD
________ SHAME
_____________
Family friends
ILLNESS MISS
Friends family
_________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________
S
T
1 1 1 PAwalkRK A ME
ME
N
D
_________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________
– see next page
OCTOBER 2018 15Marijuana Legal In Canada,
But What About Here At Work?
Will the Employee and avid marijuana smoker, be
able to get high during lunch break?
The legalization of Marijuana does not mean you New
will be able to use it here in the Plant! Unifor Alternate
Marijuana’s legalization will not open any
floodgates allowing individuals to smoke whenever or EFAP Representative
wherever. Put simply, it does not give employees the KEVIN DAVE Hello my name is David Inguanez and
right to be impaired at work; neither does it entitle FLETCHER INGUANEZ I would like to introduce myself as the
EFAP ALTERNATE EFAP
them to smoke marijuana at work or in any public REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE Alternate Employee Family Assistance
place. It permits users to smoke marijuana in their Representative at the Brampton
private residence. Assembly Plant. I will be working
You will still be disciplined for using Inguanez are available between the hours alongside our full-time Rep Kevin
Marijuana in the workplace, the same of 8:30am to 4:30pm in the Brampton Fletcher and our office is located at
as alcohol in the workplace, for there is Assembly Plant on scheduled production column A22.
a zero tolerance. Even though it is legal days. There is also an emergency cell The EFAP office provides assistance
outside the Plant for recreational use, it phone after hours. and support for Substance Abuse issues,
does not mean it is going to be allowed Kevin Fletcher family counselling, grief counselling,
in the workplace. If you are using for EFAP Representative anger management and coping with
medicinal purposes, you will still be Dave Inguanez work and family situations in all areas.
accommodated, the same as any other Alternate EFAP Representative I will assist in finding the resources for
prescription drug in the workplace, by the Office: (905) 458-2672 these issues or situations.
company Doctor’s approval. A prescription I have been providing my services
for medical marijuana does not entitle to FCA Brampton since November
an employee to be 24th1997. I can be contacted at:
impaired at work. David Inguanez
If you feel Alternate EFAP/Substance Abuse Rep.
that you have Brampton Assembly Plant
any questions or Office (905) 458-2672
possibly any kind Cell (416) 668-6517
of substance abuse E-Mail:
problem, Kevin david.inguanez@fcagroup.com
Fletcher or Dave
BRAIN TEASERS
Solutions
Family friends
BREAKING
Friends family
COM STOOD
________ SHAME
_____________
Family friends
ILLNESS MISS
Friends family
shame amongst
breaking up
_________________________ com-on illness
_________________________ friends & family
_________________________ miss-under-stood
_________________________
S
T
1 1 1 PAwalkRK A ME
ME
N
D
1 in 3
_________________________ walk in the park
_________________________ stand by me
_________________________ bundle of nerves
_________________________
16 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWS2017 Ontario Workplace Convictions
On April 9. 2015, Andy Sokhan texted Gordon Graham saying workplace accident in 2017, in London. A
that he thought that the crane that he was operating was worker at their London location had their hand
dangerous. Graham, a supervisor for the construction company crushed. Toromont was fined $115,000 in that
Forma-Con told Sokhan that if it the crane could be dangerous to case. (Toromont was also fined $95,000 in 2011
use, it should be shut down. when a worker hired through Toromont’s Cimco
The crane was being used to pour concrete at a construction Refrigeration to work at Sobey’s Retail Support
site for a new library and community centre in Brampton on the Centre in Whitby, suffered “severe head injuries NORA
Gore Road. and electrical burns” according to the Ministry LORETO
EDITOR OF THE
A week-and-a-half later, the defective crane was still in use. It of Labour). CANADIAN
tipped while lowering its boom, killing Mark Attallah. Mark was One quarter of the fines were levied for ASSOCIATION
OF LABOUR
40, a husband, a brother and father of two children. He was a health and safety violations at public worksites. MEDIA
member of Local 27 Carpenters Union and lived in Aurora. Most were contracted to private companies doing the work, but
There’s scant coverage of the tragedy. in some cases, public entities
Mark’s name isn’t in any of the news reports. were fined. This includes
President of the Toronto and York Region two mental health facilities
Labour Council John Cartwright wrote a where workers were stabbed
Facebook status to remember Mark, and three by patients. The Ministry of
other workers who died that same month: Labour found that in both
William Cerqueira who fell three stories to his cases, not enough was done to
death and Luigi Cudini and Shane Jennings prevent these events.
who fell five stories to their deaths. The Town of Innisfil,
On Nov. 27, 2017, fines were imposed on the City of Toronto and the
Forma-Con (1428508 Ontario Limited of Regional Municipality of
Concord), Graham and Sokhan for various Waterloo were all fined for
health and safety code infractions for health and safety violations.
continuing to use the faulty crane. Forma- The smallest fine levied
con was fined $285,000, Graham was fined for negligence causing death
$15,000 and Sokhan was fined $13,000. to a worker was just $10,000. William Witter, owner of a small
Brampton is ground zero for worker injury and death in business, was clearing lumber with the deceased worker at the
Ontario. A CALM analysis of the 72 convictions delivered in time of the accident that killed him. The accident happened in
2017 by the Ministry of Labour show that workplace health and Bruce County. The Owen Sound Times reported that the victim
safety violations happened more in Brampton than any other city was 51-year-old Mark Fritz. His obituary says that he had nine
in Ontario. In 2017, 12 fines, including the three related to the grandchildren.
death of Mark Attallah, were handed out for workplace injury, There were eight fines levied for injuries that were considered
death or unpaid wages. That’s more than for infractions in all of to be permanent. While the Ministry of Labour reports on some
Eastern Ontario. of the details of the event that caused injuries, in some cases, they
The fines imposed during 2017 related to worker health mention that an injury required hospitalization, that an injury or
and safety infractions serious enough to warrant fines, from injuries were critical, or permanent.
between 2013 and 2017. In most cases, fines were imposed for
injuries. The Ministry of Labour reported each fine, and included
information about the circumstances of the death, like the
circumstances of Attallah’s death.
The average fine given out in 2017 was $78,552.
The largest fine was given to Fiera Foods, after Amina
Diaby died when her hijab got caught in machinery.
The conditions of working at Fiera Foods in Toronto
were documented by Sara Mojtehedzadeh and Brendan
Kennedy at the Toronto Star in a months-long undercover
investigation. Fiera Foods was fined $300,000.
The largest fines for a health and safety violation where
a worker was injured were given to three companies
involved in another large public project: building the
South West Detention Centre, located in Windsor. A
worker was seriously burned in 2013. Three companies
were fined a total of $460,000, including Toromont
Industries, which was fined $210,000 of that amount.
Toromont Industries was also fined in another
OCTOBER 2018 17Halloween Fundraiser
On Saturday, October 27th we’re having vitally important that those we lose are week. The public health
our annual Halloween Fundraiser in remembered, and that we continue to fight agency here in Canada
support of Pflag Peel Region featuring for justice.” estimates that by the end
a New Show from the Deceiving Divas! – Transgender Day of Remembrance of 2016 there were over
Always a great evening of fun and founder Gwendolyn Ann Smith 63,000 Canadians living
laughter! Tickets $50 each. Dinner show November 20th is the Trans Day with HIV. Out of that, 86
and door prizes! Come as you are or dress of Remembrance. Each year there are percent with HIV were CHRIS
up in costume! tributes to trans people who have lost diagnosed and aware MACKEY
PRIDE
Pflag Canada (Parents and Friends of their lives due to anti-transgender they had disease but that COMMITTEE
Lesbian and Gays) and all its chapters violence across the country. Also, during also meant that around CHAIRPERSON
across the country have done, and the week of November 13-19, people 14 percent were not
continue to do, amazing work to help and organizations around the country diagnosed. For more information, please
LGBTQ youth finding themselves in participate in Transgender Awareness visit www.catie.ca
circumstances beyond their control, get week to help raise the visibility of • Free Anonymous Testing in Toronto
back on track. We’re lucky to have this transgender people and address the at the Hassle-free Clinic www.
organization as well as many others to issues trans people face. The trans day of hasslefreeclinic.org or call 416-922-
help our youth when things are tough. remembrance was started back in 1999 0566.
For more information on Pflag Canada by Gwendolyn Ann Smith to honour the • Ontario Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Strategy
and to find a chapter in your area, please memory of Rita Hester a trans woman www.oahas.org 1-800-743-8851 or 416-
go to www.pflagcanada.ca killed in 1998. 944-9481
• HIV and Aids Legal Clinic Ontario
November 20th December 1st World Aids Day www.halco.org 416-340-7790
Trans Day Of Remembrance Since 1988, World Aids Day has We have a new Local 1285 Pride email:
“The Transgender Day of Remembrance brought awareness to those living with uniforlocal1285pride@gmail.com. Privacy
seeks to highlight the losses we face due HIV and to commemorate those who have and confidentiality assured and excepted
to anti-transgender bigotry and violence. succumbed to this dreaded disease. Since so reach out for further information
I am no stranger to the need to fight for the virus was first discovered in 1984, over on the above topics or any questions or
our rights, and the right to simply exist is 36 million people worlds wide have died concerns.
first and foremost. With so many seeking and now over 35 million are living with
to erase transgender people -- sometimes the virus. This year in Canada also marks
in the most brutal ways possible -- it is the start of Aboriginal Aids Awareness
Human Rights Committee Update
Welcome back, I hope everyone had a In September I attended this year’s and give us a glimpse
great summer. This year’s Labour Day Human Rights Conference; Claiming into his busy schedule.
parade coincided with Unifor’s fifth Human Rights for All. It was an intense, Once again Jerry didn’t
anniversary. It was a great celebration on emotional and eye opening weekend. On disappoint with how
four different harbour boat cruises. There Friday night the keynote speaker was Alex passionate he is about
was delicious food, great music, amazing Neve, a human rights activist and the our union.
friends and a beautiful view of the air secretary general of Amnesty International We are all different. SHARON
show. A great time was had by all! Thank Canada. On Saturday morning the guest We have the privilege SEWERYNEK
HUMAN RIGHTS
You Unifor! speaker was Robyn Maynard, human of being members of a COMMITTEE
I was able to attend this year’s Take rights activist and author of Policing strong union with many CHAIRPERSON
Back the Night event held in Malton, Black Lives. We were able to choose support systems. Let us
hosted by The Peel Committee Against two workshops that gave us an insight not forget the services that are available
Abuse. This annual community event into human rights issues faced by the to us like the Women’s Advocate or the
calls for an end to violence against women presenters. We also had two guest speakers Employee & Family Assistance program.
and Trans people. The speakers were from the Bermuda Public Services Union Sharon Sewerynek
inspiring and moving. There were tables and they shared with us some insight into Human Rights
set up to make signs and noise makers. their lives and the struggles they face, such Committee Chairperson
The march around the community is as racism, homophobia and sexism.
done to empower women to walk alone Even in the midst of the NAFTA Trade
at night without fear. It was a well done talks we were privileged to be able to
community event. have Jerry Dias join us on Saturday night
18 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWSOCTOBER 2018 19
20 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWS
Women’s Conference Theme Was
Women’s Bodies, Women’s Rights
I had the opportunity to attend this The Women Rocking Political Action Day of Remembrance
year’s Women’s Conference in Port Elgin Panel highlighted the need for women in and Action on Violence
from August 5-8. This year’s theme was politics. For us to be able to move forward Against Women. We
Women’s Bodies, Women’s Rights. There on Women’s issues we must have women gather to remember
were over 400 women in attendance. It at the forefront raising awareness. We the 14 women shot
was a jam-packed weekend with guest need women to push for political action, and killed in 1989 at
speakers and workshops that were so we can see changes in our communities École Polytechnique, LORI
interactive and thought-provoking. and our workplaces. Jerry Dias also joined Montreal. Join us for the KERR
WOMAN’S
The keynote speaker for the conference us and spoke to us about the importance rose ceremony outside, COMMITTEE
was Angela Robertson who spoke about of women in politics and in our union. then warm up with CHAIRPERSON
women’s rights and the fight for equality. He spoke to us about pay equity, domestic some light refreshments
The idea that women are not equal violence leave legislation, Mental Health, and speeches from various community
members of society is still very much alive, National Childcare programs and the rolls organizations.
which is why we still fight for pay equity, women need to play in making change We are hosting our second annual
women’s health rights and our place at happen. “fill a purse” campaign. Please donate
the table. We are far from being treated The Disrupters and Allies Panel spoke any toiletries and new or gently used
equally. to having a voice. They addressed being an purses to the donation bins at your facility
“We are in a common struggle for our ally, making space and supporting other or contact, lorikerr@rogers.com to arrange
collective equality” – Angela Robertson women. pick up or drop off. These purses will be
Cynthia Langill, an addictions counselor The 1285 Women’s Committee donated filled with the toiletries and delivered to
at Renascent in Toronto, spoke about the a five-year supply of feminine products to various shelters in the community. Keep
Feminist approach to Mental Health and the “tampontuesday” campaign. an eye on notice boards for information
Addiction. Cynthia opened our eyes to the These are just a few of the highlights on helping put these purses together.
many obstacle’s women face when dealing from this invigorating weekend. Be the hand that raises women up
with mental health and addiction. Women Unfortunately, the next Women’s instead of the hand that pushes them
are more reluctant to seek the help they Conference won’t be held in Port Elgin down.
need with addiction issues, mostly out until 2020. Let’s hope we have some big In Solidarity,
of fear. Approximately 85 percent of the changes to report by then. Lori Kerr
women seeking treatment have a history This is a busy time of year for the Women’s Committee Chairperson
of abuse. As women we take on many Women’s committee. In October we are
roles. We are workers, mothers, caregivers hosting the annual Children’s Halloween
and homemakers who often find ourselves Party at the local shelter. Because of safety
overburdened and are two times more issues these children can’t go trick or
likely to suffer from major depressive/ treating so we provide a fun filled evening
anxiety disorders. Untreated mental health for them to enjoy Halloween festivities.
issues can lead to self medication and December 6 Candlelight Vigil at Gage
addictions which can lead to health issues. Park in Brampton. This is the National
OCTOBER 2018 21National Roundtable On Taking Action
Against Racism And Islamophobia
I attended the National Roundtable on taking that works to improve the lives of refugees and immigration
action against racism and Islamophobia this settlement. After fleeing their home country, immigrants are
summer. The moderator was Dr. Lynn Jones, faced with a form of oppression, as they take bad jobs in order to
chair of Global African Congress-Nova Scotia survive and be able to bring over their families.
chapter. She is Canadian born with roots going Naureen Rizvi is the Ontario Director for Unifor and spoke
back several generations in Nova Scotia. She about the education we need to have in order to facilitate these
spoke on how Aboriginal workers and Workers TRICIA conversations and bring the issues forward. These are the
of Colour have been talking about this issue BROWN conversations that may make others feel uncomfortable, but they
ABORIGINAL
for many years and it has fallen on deaf ears. & WORKERS need to happen in order for change to take place.
If we are not seeing direct, overt racism, how OF COLOUR Robyn Maynard is an activist and author of Policing Black
COMMITTEE
does it manifest itself? As a labour movement CHAIRPERSON Lives: State violence in Canada from Slavery to the present. She
it is important that we take on this leadership spoke of black people who are facing discrimination, and the
role and ask ourselves what action have we taken to change the need to fight for a safe existence in social structures that were
situation on Islamophobia and oppression. created to give life to racism. So let’s challenge the status quo and
Erica Violet Lee, an organizer with “Idle No More,” is a disrupt racism when we see it happening.
two-spirit Nehiyaw (Cree) writer and student from Saskatoon, Nazhat Jafri is the President of the Canadian Council of
Saskatchewan. She works with Indigenous Climate Action and Muslim Women and spoke of the lives that changed after the
other grassroots initiatives, and spoke about how labour unions first Gulf War. We need to continue to promote women’s equity,
were some of the first to support Idle No More. Colonialism involvement and empowerment.
works to keep us separated in different groups so we need to
work to break down these barriers.
Janet Dench is an executive director with the Canadian
Council for Refugees and spoke of the 200 member organization
Workers’ Comp Is A Right!...
Workers’ Comp Is A Right! is a minister raising his membership meeting, celebrating how
campaign launched by the Ontario concerns with some of they’ve doubled their assets from $16.8
Network of Injured Workers’ Group the issues with WSIB billion in 2010 to $35.7 billion in 2017,
in September 2017 for the purpose of and Niagara West MPP assets attained by cutting benefits and
standing up to the injustices that are Sam Oosterhoff also denying claims. Over 40 injured workers
being committed against injured workers committed to raise the came out for the 8am rally to stand up
by the WSIB. Supporters of the campaign issues with the previous ANGELIKA to the WSIB and say “We will NOT back
are coming together throughout the Conservative caucus. CERJANEC down!”
HEALTH & SAFETY
province and organizing on three key The current election COMMITTEE If you are an injured worker struggling
demands: has shifted things, CHAIRPERSON with WSIB there is an injured worker
1. No cuts based on phantom jobs. as there are many peer support and political action group in
2. Listen to the injured workers’ new MPPs in power... it has yet to be Brampton. If you are interested in joining
treating healthcare professional, and determined whether the Conservatives them please email me and I will put you
3. Stop cutting benefits based on still feel the same way. A few lobby days in touch with them. If you would like
“pre‑existing conditions”! are ahead at Queen’s Park in October to to join the “Workers’ Comp is a Right”
Since the campaign launch over 4,000 meet with the new MPPs, including the mailing list please go to tinyurl.com/
signatures have been collected. The group new Labour Minister. This should give us WorkersCompIsARight
has held meetings with over 50 MPPs a better idea of where they stand now. In Solidarity,
from across the province and the petition This is why it is important to continue Angelika Cerjanec
has been read out in the legislature over to circulate the petition and email your
30 times. The NDP caucus have been MPP. An injustice against an injured
supportive and have committed to tackle worker is an injustice against all workers.
the three campaign goals. There were As part of standing up to these injustices
also some liberal MPPs who supported myself and co-chair Casey Bird attended
the cause but unfortunately none of them a rally on September 26th outside the
were re-elected. Conservative MPP John Marriott Hotel in Toronto. The WSIB
Yakabuski wrote a letter to the former were holding their annual general
22 UNIFOR LOCAL 1285 NEWSOrange Shirt Day
Dear Brothers and Sisters, to show our support and speak their own language and forbidden
Unifor Local 1285 recognizes solidarity to every child from practicing their own culture. Many
September 30th as Orange Shirt Day. wh attended residential children experienced sexual and physical
Orange Shirt Day began in 2013 in schools now that they abuse while in the care of residential
Williams Lake, BC, when a community are adults, the children schools and it is estimated that of the
came together to recognize the legacy of that didn’t survive, and 150,000 Indigenous children that attended,
the St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School, tomorrow’s children BY 6,000 died while in their care. Some
particularly its former students from to let them know that JESSICA witnesses estimate that fatalities could
the Secwepemc, Tsilhqot’in, Southern every child does matter, AGNEW be double, to triple that number. Many
ABORIGINAL
Dakelh and St’at’imc Nations. Events were and we do care. Orange & WORKERS children experienced emotional trauma
OF COLOUR
held to commemorate the survivors of shirt day is celebrated COMMITTEE from their time spent in residential school,
MEMBER
residential schools and to promote healing to promote truth and experienced abandonment from their
and reconciliation between survivors, the and reconciliation as well as provide a parents and their communities. Parents
government of Canada and the churches supportive environment so that they can were threatened with imprisonment if
responsible. One particular student, share their stories and begin the healing caught trying to withhold their child,
Phyllis Webstad from Dog Creek Reserve process. The 1285 Aboriginal and Workers and children were often taken forcibly by
told her story of her first day of school. of Colour Committee had orange shirts government agents assisted by the RCMP.
Her grandmother took Phyllis to a local for sale at the Brampton Assembly Plant, The divide between family, community,
shop to purchase Phyllis a beautiful orange the Android plant, and our Local as well and culture has had its lasting effects
shirt with what little money she had. as a synopsis of Phyllis’ story. We asked which can still be felt in First Nations
Phyllis loved her new shirt and it made that our membership wear their orange communities to this very day. The last
her very excited for her first day of school. shirts on Friday, October 28th. residential school closed its doors in 1996.
Like many other stories told by residential Phyllis’ story is one of many across In 2008, the Truth and Reconciliation
school survivors, Phyllis was not only Canada. The legacy of residential schools Commission took testimony from
stripped of her fancy new orange shirt, she has created intergenerational trauma and residential school survivors and the
was stripped of her childhood. hardship. In 1876 Sir John A. MacDonald Harper government officially apologized
“When I got to the Mission, they stripped passed the Indian Act. Duncan Campbell for the cultural genocide that has made a
me, and took away my clothes, including Scott passed an amendment to the permanent mark in Canada’s history. As
the orange shirt! I never wore it again. I Indian Act in 1920 making it mandatory Canadians, we are still working towards
didn’t understand why they wouldn’t give it for all Indigenous children under the truth and reconciliation and we still have
back to me, it was mine! The colour orange age of fifteen to attend residential much work to do.
has always reminded me of that and how schools. Residential schools were a On behalf of the Aboriginal and
my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared network of boarding schools funded by Workers of Colour Committee, we would
and how I felt like I was worth nothing. All the Department of Indian Affairs and like to give thanks to Local 1285 and our
of us little children were crying, and no one administered by Christian churches. The membership for your support for the
cared.” aim of the residential school system was Orange Shirt initiative and we encourage
– Phyllis to promote the assimilation of the First members to continue to show your
From then on, every September 30th, at Peoples of Canada. It was mandated support for years to come.
the beginning of every child’s school year, that when a child arrived on their first In Solidarity,
Canadians commemorate Phyllis’ story of day of school, their long hair was cut, Jessica Agnew
her orange shirt. Orange shirts are worn they were given uniforms, told not to AWOC Committee, Local 1285
Organizing First Union Pilot Podcast
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Gary movements, and we will have guest speakers to give us a
Ouellette and Kevin Wrycraft as my co-chairs of the better scope of current affairs in order to better educate
Community Services Committee. Their community- and strengthen our membership.
mindedness and active roles within the union are The United Way campaign at FCA is taking place
a positive asset in bringing a modern approach to and your contributions will benefit many organizations
unionism. within our community.
We have been very busy organizing our very first As a union we all have to get involved to fight for and JOSE
union pilot podcast, to be launched at the next general protect the things that matter to us. SOUTO
COMMUNITY
membership meeting. The podcast will deal with In Solidarity SERVICES
current issues and challenges that we face as a union. Jose Souto COMMITTEE
CO-CHAIRPERSON
We will promote other standing committees and their Community Services Committee
OCTOBER 2018 23You can also read
