- Hub staff
After acknowledging the teachings of those on whose traditional land they gathered, the Grey Bruce Labour Council remembered those for whom the past year has been particularly hard: those lost to overdose, those who struggle for justice, and those whose work was more challenging and risky through the pandemic.
And then, they celebrated. In a quiet gathering at the bandstand in Queen's Park in Owen Sound, members and allies noted that this holiday, won by the actions of workers, recognizes the labour of all working people - in unions and outside of unions.
After acknowledging the teachings of those on whose traditional land they gathered, the Grey Bruce Labour Council remembered those for whom the past year has been particularly hard: those lost to overdose, those who struggle for justice, and those whose work was more challenging through the pandemic.
And then, they celebrated. In a quiet gathering at the bandstand in Queen's Park in Owen Sound, members and allies noted that this holiday, won by the actions of workers, recognizes the labour of all working people - in unions and outside of unions.
President of the Labour Council, Kevin Smith, made the following remarks.
Today is not about the pandemic; it's not about the election. It's about celebrating all of the accomplishments of so many that have come before us; celebrating those those who have gone above and beyond for the past 18 months. And it's about celebrating all workers.
For many, they know this as the last official weekend of summer, celebrated with backyard barbecues, moving children to college or university – those things may not be happening in the same way again this year due to the pandemic. Regardless, no matter who you are, what you are doing, today is the day we gather in some form to reflect and celebrate the accomplishments of Labour.
Recovery from the pandemic means taking real steps to address inequality. We need to focus on decent work and a more equitable economy for everyone.
We are in the middle of an election. After September 20th, those who form the new government had better be ready to listen. And they will listen to us ensure this country recovers from the pandemic.
Recovery will happen because of us, the workers, and the Labour Movement, and years from now it will be us that are remembered for being responsible for a successful recovery.
We have weathered the pandemic. It has and will likely continue to take its toll on many but we are here today to celebrate. Today we will celebrate Labour, we will celebrate the work that has been done and the work we do that makes a difference in everyone's lives.
For us it's what we do. It's who we are. It's a passion that runs through us and quite simply that's what makes this day so important.
Today we celebrate Labour. Happy Labour Day!
