Union News - December 2022
Recently, the Ontario government passed Bill 28, an Act to resolve labour disputes involving school board employees represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The legislation would deny these members their rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Human Rights Act and limit the jurisdiction of the Ontario Labour Relations Board, arbitrators, and other tribunals to make certain inquiries or decisions. The collective agreement included in Bill 28 would cap wage increases at 2.5% annually for workers who earn below $43,000 per year, and at 1.5% annually for workers who earn above $43,000 per year. In addition, those who chose to strike could be fined $4,000 per day.
CUPE members said “NO!” and, despite the potential legal and financial penalties, took to the streets on November 4th, the day after Bill 28 received royal assent. Across the province, schools, MPP’s offices, and Queens Park were the sites of rallies, where thousands showed support for the CUPE workers who were risking so much to launch the protest. On November 7th, after seeing this massive show of solidarity, Premier Doug Ford announced that Bill 28 would be repealed.
This is an Ontario example, but it could happen in any province, with any bargaining unit. And if it is ever successful, it could open the door for similar legislation to be applied elsewhere…even federally. That’s why it’s so important for us – all of us – to be vigilant and prepared to stand up for any group whose rights are being threatened.
I was on one of the CUPE picket lines and the people I saw on the line, aside from CUPE members and union supporters, were regular citizens, standing up in support of a group whose rights were being threatened. And because of the vast support, Bill 28 was repealed on November 14th. CUPE members were again free to negotiate a collective agreement!
We need to be on guard and prepared to stand up when others’ rights are being threatened – an injury to one is an injury to all. It’s easier to strengthen the dam than it is to put all the water back when the dam weakens and fails. So, when your Union asks you to support another group, remember CUPE and the fight they put up to protect their rights…and in the process to protect yours too.
Melanee Jessup
Communications Committee