Editor:
Attending the BC Federation of Labour’s 59th (virtual) convention on Nov. 25 and 26, I was able to see how people’s visions of equality and social justice can be supported by the labour movement and how, through the solidarity of our numbers combined with lobbying, we can collectively change policy.
My biggest takeaway from the event was voiced several times in the Human Rights Forum on Sunday. People of equity groups want their diversity to fit into the whole. They want to be listened to and invited to the table where decisions are made. They, like everyone, want to be included in a genuine way where they are valued, and not just there for tokenism.
Resolutions and reports spoke to the environment, safe drug supply, housing and care for our aging.
Emergency Resolution 2 dealt with Truth and Reconciliation and residential schools. It has become evident that all people living in Canada need to open our ears and hearts to understand how the impact of residential schools are still affecting today’s generations. This needs to be further supported in policy and in school curriculum. Healthy and supported Indigenous people will help all our community thrive, and that was expressed by many in their heartfelt statements.
Jennifer Chancellor,
Sunshine Coast Labour Council,
BC Ferry and Marine Workers Union
