UFCW Canada Local 1000A members and staff collected more than 250 pairs of women’s shoes for a memorial tribute in rememberance of all the women who have lost their lives to violence. The tribute, which was displayed at UFCW Canada’s national headquarters, was held to raise awareness about violence against women.
“Thank you to everyone who participated in this memorial tribute—with your support, we are helping to raise awareness about the ongoing tragedy of violence against women in our society,” said Diana O’Brien, coordinator of Local 1000A’s WIN committee. “It was incredibly moving to see so many members step forward to help and to take part in the tribute. I look forward to a day where there is an end to violence against women.”
Local 1000A members at Stuart Parker’s Your Independent Grocer in North Bay took part in a ‘Silent Stand-In’ at their store on December 6 to raise awareness and help end violence against women.
Along with handing out White Ribbons and informational cards, members, family and friends also held up posters showing statistical details to educate the public on the reality of violence against women in Canada.
Local 1000A activist Shirley Walker was named the recipient of the 2014 "Pearl" award at the local union's 8th Annual Stewards Conference.
"I am humbled by this honour," Shirley said. "It's incredible and totally unexpected. I have been fortunate and I feel it is my responsibility as a citizen to use my voice for those who cannot speak up for themselves and to stand up for the most vulnerable in our society."
UFCW Canada Local 1000A welcomes the news that the Ontario government has recognized April 16, 2014 as Equal Pay Day.
The government’s decision comes at a time when Ontario women, on average, are paid 31 per cent less than men for work of equal value.
During the past year, President Sawyer and union member activists have lobbied the Premier and MPPs through the Equal Pay Coalition to acknowledge that the pay gap must be eliminated. The coalition of organizations, of which Local 1000A is a member, seeks the implementation of equal pay for work of equal value both through legislation and collective bargaining.
