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When we’re united
we can’t lose
Now is a time to celebrate our achievements in making life better for our members and all Canadians, and we must be united to protect them for future generations. That was the message from National President Paul Moist to CUPE’s 50th anniversary convention.
“We believe the services we provide make Canada a great place to live, and we vow to defend those services,†said Moist in his convention report. “Throughout our history, CUPE has always supported the struggles of other workers. What we seek for ourselves, we seek for all workers.â€
Attacks on pensions and collective bargaining rights, the Harper government’s attempts to silence voices of dissent, the right-wing driven austerity agenda – Moist didn’t hide the threats facing CUPE, and what needs to be done to fight back.
“If we build our solidarity and our unity, within our union and with communities across our nation – we can’t lose,†said Moist. “I believe profoundly in each of you as leaders and in our staff and I believe together we can build CUPE into a huge force for good in Canada.â€
Concluding his address, Moist was joined on stage by CUPE members from all sectors. He then officially opened the 26th biennial national convention to a rousing standing ovation. (watch online»)
We have everything we need to fight back
CUPE has the resources to counter attacks on workers, particularly those in the public service.
“We can fight back because we have the human and financial resources to protect our members and all working Canadians,†CUPE National Secretary-Treasurer Charles Fleury told delegates.
“We must continue to oppose the austerity agendas of too many governments, as they affect our members, in their working conditions and in the services they provide to the communities,†he added.
Fortunately, the union’s finances are solid. CUPE also has a new permanent Fightback Fund and a healthy National Strike Fund. But in waging this battle, CUPE has its most valuable asset: its members across the country.
“A strong team must include all our members. That’s why we need to stay in touch with our membership. With the Fairness project, launched in conjunction with the CLC, we will have an even stronger fighting team to meet the challenges ahead. Together, we have the power to make change,†concluded Fleury.
(watch online»)
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