CUPE Ontario celebrating 50 years of standing up for fairness

Craig Saunders —

This Labour Day weekend, members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Ontario will celebrate 50 years of standing up for fairness at events across the province, including thousands of members marching in Toronto’s Labour Day Parade.

“As a union, we have a 50 year history of standing up for equality and fairness,” says CUPE Ontario President Fred Hahn. “Many of the gains made at the bargaining table are now enjoyed widely in Ontario – things like parental leave, health and safety regulations, a minimum wage. We’re proud of this history that has improved the lives of all people in Ontario. On Labour Day we recommit ourselves, in every community across Ontario, to continue to fight for fairness for all working people.”

Hahn will march in the Toronto Labour Day parade along with CUPE Ontario Secretary-Treasurer Candace Rennick and thousands of local members and leaders.

“I encourage people to take time out this Labour Day long weekend to join us at events in their communities,” says Rennick. “Unions have made our communities stronger, and we’re continuing that work. Labour Day is the perfect time to reflect on the contributions union members are making in our province.”

In Toronto, CUPE Ontario members will assemble on the West side of University Avenue, south of Dundas Street at 9:00 a.m. For a list of Labour Day events across the province, visit cupe.on.ca/labourday2013.