GVP Pearson would like to wish a happy holiday to all working families, and extend his appreciation to all officers and staff within the western territory. Labor day is more than just a day off of work, it is a time to reflect on the advancements that the labor movement has delivered to families across this country, and appreciate all those who have sacrificed to make our lives better.
There was a time in this country when there was no such thing as a weekend, or overtime; in fact, there was a time when safety in the workplace was a pipe-dream, and children were employed in factories by the age of seven. Today, we take much of what we have for granted; but the rights we enjoy were not given to us - labor unions had to fight hard to bring about the changes.
On this holiday, take time to be grateful, and enjoy those closest to you; but, remain vigilant that what we enjoy today could be gone tomorrow. There are forces that want to get rid of overtime, take away our health-care coverage, they want to make promises to retirees and then not live up to them, and they want to get out from under the regulations that protect our safety on the job. If we don't stay focused, they will return us to the days when you had to cower and hide when the boss-man walked by.
The IAM is proud of the role we have played in bringing fairness to workers since 1888; and we are positioned to remain a strong voice for fairness long into the future. Together we can give our children and grandchildren a life that allows them to pursue any dream. We can deliver a bright and noble future for every working person, but we can't do it if we relax and lose sight of our goals.
Enjoy the day off, but please pause - even if only for a moment - and thank all those who have sacrificed to make your life better.
Click here for a video presentation about the 100 year history of struggle and success that the Labor movement has had.
