District 3 News
Steelworkers union supports Canadian Football League Players’ Association, denounces league’s behaviour
“The United Steelworkers urges the CFL to return to the bargaining table and to commit to negotiating in good faith with its most-important asset – its players.” - Marty Warren
Saskatchewan Steelworkers back Carla Beck
The USW announces support for MLA Carla Beck in her campaign to become the leader of the Saskatchewan New Democrats.
Workers at Winnipeg’s Brenntag Canada Inc. vote to join the United Steelworkers
Workers at Brenntag Canada Inc., a chemical and ingredients distribution centre in Winnipeg, have voted overwhelmingly to join the USW.
Workers rally for members of locked out union
UW Local 2009 members who have been locked out of their jobs at UFCW 1518 for over a month are not letting employer tactics drive divides between workers – instead, they’re building solidarity with the members of the union that locked them out.
Long airport lineups cause public outcry, Whitehorse workers deserve better
Recent long lineups at airports are causing a public outcry to fix security screening services at the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport.
Long airport lineups cause public outcry, Abbotsford workers deserve better
Recent long lineups at B.C. airports are causing a public outcry to fix security screening services at the Abbotsford International Airport.
United Steelworkers honour Westray disaster 30 years later, push for enforcement of law
In the early morning hours of May 9, 1992, an explosion ripped through the Westray coal mine in Plymouth, N.S. The explosion took the lives of 26 miners and forever changed the lives of the people of Plymouth and many surrounding communities.
Building a stronger future for Western Canada
Message from USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny
Community action builds bargaining support
The members of USW Local 9211-14 sent a message to their employer and a provincial board of arbitration that was meeting to decide the outcome of their collective agreement. The employer wanted concessions, and the workers fought back.
Workers across Canada turn to USW
From hotels to sawmills and long-term care homes to call centres, workers in virtually every sector of the economy are turning to the Steelworkers union to help improve their working and living standards.
Remembering the tragic loss of Steelworkers in B.C. sawmill explosions
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the deadly explosions at the Babine Forest Products sawmill near Burns Lake, and at Lakeland Mills in Prince George.
Atlantic Screeners: Bargaining for post-pandemic gains
Two USW local unions are covered under one agreement and they are heading to the bargaining table with Securitas this spring. The USW represents airport screeners in all three districts in Canada.
Uranium miner’s daughter “breaks the trail” for victims of McIntyre Powder
A decade-long campaign led by the daughter of a deceased uranium miner has led to victory for workers struck by Parkinson’s disease after being subjected to aluminum dust inhalation “treatments” in their jobs.
Bargaining successes
From laundry workers to university employees and ski resort staff to child-care providers, Steelworkers in virtually every sector of Canada’s economy are negotiating good collective agreements to improve their working and living standards.
Let’s Raise the Bar on women’s health and safety
Most workplaces and safety equipment have been designed to suit male workers. When we take women into account, we make workplaces safer.
Steelworkers argue landmark international trade case
USW files first union-led trade complaint in Canada, leading to anti-dumping investigation.
Health and safety struggle continues in Quebec
Quebec Steelworkers are mobilizing to resist the harmful effects of regressive health and safety legislation passed by the right-wing Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government.
Victory on the picket lines!
Two groups of Steelworkers make big gains after taking the ultimate stand.
Building on the union’s strong legacy
On March 1, international and district officers of the United Steelworkers were sworn into office in a ceremony at the USW headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA.
Westray: 30 Years
In May, Steelworkers leaders and rank-and-file members will be in Pictou County, N.S., for the 30th anniversary of Westray, to join with the families and community and remember the miners who were killed.
Director Message: Taking on this challenge, together: Strong as Steel
"As a district director, I always surrounded myself with activists who were passionate and energetic about creating a better future for workers and that continues to this day." – Marty Warren, USW National Director
3rd National Gathering of Indigenous Steelworkers
Message from National Director Marty Warren calling for registrations for the third National Gathering for Indigenous Steelworkers, October 5-6, 2022 at the historic Machine Shop building in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario.
Ken Neumann honoured with prestigious Sefton-Williams Award
Award recognizes Ken Neumann’s legacy as one of Canada’s pre-eminent labour leaders and as a pioneer in building global labour solidarity.
B.C. workers condemn union as UFCW 1518 staff shore up support with a petition demanding an end to lockout
It’s been three weeks since UFCW 1518 made a shockingly anti-labour decision to lock out its staff. Now the union’s own rank-and-file members are speaking out against the decision and asking their elected representatives to return to the bargaining table.
Asian Heritage Month 2022
In May each year, Steelworkers join with communities celebrating Asian Heritage Month.
Day of Mourning 2022
On April 28, we mourn the dead and recommit to fight for the living, every day.
United Steelworkers statement on 10th anniversary of Lakeland Mills explosion
Ten years ago, on April 23, 2012, two dozen workers were on shift at the Lakeland Mills sawmill in Prince George, B.C., when a fatal explosion and fire ripped through the mill. Two workers were killed while 22 others were left injured.
Federal budget answers Steelworkers’ call to defend Canadian jobs
Changes will give Canadian workers better ability to fight unfair trade practices.
Equal Pay Day 2022: We know how to close the wage gap, so why don’t we?
Women workers deserve better! We need a recovery that lifts all women up, and we need to close the gender wage gap, through effective pay equity laws and enforcement.
Federal budget must support workers, strengthen Canada: United Steelworkers union
Federal budget must secure a stronger economy that will create jobs and support people across Canada.
McIntyre Powder: A dark era in Canada’s mining industry
Between 1943 and 1979, tens of thousands of Canadian workers were compelled to endure toxic aluminum dust inhalation “therapy.”
‘Racing against the clock’
An urgent quest is under way to find former miners and families entitled to potentially life-changing compensation for industrial disease.
Steelworkers urge all-party support for NDP bills to protect people and the planet
“These two ground-breaking bills are a progressive response to a recurring pattern of violations of workers’ rights and human rights linked to Canadian companies.” - Marty Warren
Big gains for workers in Liberal-NDP agreement: Steelworkers
“This is a triumph by the NDP. To get the Liberals to agree to bring in anti-scab legislation, dental care and pharmacare – all things the Liberals have repeatedly voted against – is a big deal,” said Marty Warren, USW National Director.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund contributes $40,000 in support of Ukrainian refugees
Funds from United Steelworkers’ Canadian members will support humanitarian needs in Ukraine and surrounding countries.
Scott Lunny's statement for International Women's Day 2022
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women globally, take time to reflect on where we need to make improvements and raise awareness against bias.
Marty Warren’s statement for International Women’s Day 2022
Mothers carry the load when child-care services aren’t available
Steelworkers support measures aimed to help Ukraine
The Canadian government must take swift action to support the Ukrainian people and to protect the livelihoods of Canadian workers.
Building a stronger future for our district, together
Yesterday, the USW International Executive Board was sworn into office during the International Installation Ceremony in Pittsburgh. It is an immense honour to have been elected as the Director for District 3.
New Canadian leadership pledges to build on United Steelworkers union’s legacy
USW leaders pledge renewed fight "for change that makes life better for workers and that builds stronger communities."
Workers at Foothills Forest Products join the United Steelworkers
Sawmill workers at Foothills Forest Products have voted to join the United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 1-207.
The FCEF can help you plan events!
Is your local a contributor to the Family & Community Education Fund (FCEF) but stuck as to what events to host? Feeling too busy to brainstorm a project? We can help!
Ken Neumann and Marty Warren statement for Black History Month
In our union’s proud history of promoting and supporting equality, Steelworkers celebrate Black History Month each February.
Taking action on Truth and Reconciliation
Reconciliation means action. Here are some practical things Steelworkers and local unions can do to build reconciliation.
Steelworkers ratify new contract at Teck’s Highland Valley Copper
Members of the United Steelworkers Local 7619 at Teck’s Highland Valley Copper (HVC) Operations ratified a five-year collective agreement late Friday night after an 81.2% vote in favour of the new contract.
Steelworkers: Saskatchewan workers win big as union certification goes electronic
In a historic decision, the Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board (LRB) has ruled workers in the province can now join a union by signing an electronic union membership card.
United Steelworkers statement on 10th anniversary of Babine sawmill explosion
Ten years ago, on January 20, 2012, two workers went to work at the Babine Forest Products sawmill near Burns Lake, B.C., and didn’t return home to their families. Twenty other workers were seriously injured.
Calgary Chinook Centre Starbucks workers file application to join Steelworkers union
The United Steelworkers union (USW) has filed an application with the Alberta Labour Relations Board (ALRB) on behalf of Starbucks workers at the Chinook Centre in Calgary.
Alexa McDonough was a hero – United Steelworkers
The USW pays tribute to the memory and solidarity of Alexa McDonough, who, as leader of the federal New Democratic Party (1995-2003), was instrumental in the unanimous passing of the Westray Bill.
ADT Calgary call-centre workers join the United Steelworkers
ADT Security by TELUS call-centre workers in Calgary have voted to join the United Steelworkers (USW) union.
Pride, hope and optimism this holiday season
"As I reflect on my pending retirement as USW National Director, I am more proud than ever of our collective efforts to advance workers’ rights and build a better society." – Ken Neumann
Steelworkers union joins drive for labour rights accountability at world’s largest money manager
Unions are holding pension fund and money managers accountable. Workers’ capital must not undermine workers’ rights around the globe.
Steelworkers deliver petition demanding Canadian Tire pay global garment workers a living wage
Calling Canadian Tire! Members of the USW union petition CEO Greg Hicks to pay living wages to Bangladeshi garment workers in CTC's supply chain.
CFLPA and United Steelworkers support Hamilton Minor Football Association skills development camps
United Steelworkers and CFL players announce support for Hamilton minor football during Grey Cup week.
Ken Neumann statement for International Human Rights Day
Each year on December 10th, the United Steelworkers observe Human Rights Day. The recognition of human rights is at the core of Steelworker values and activism.
CFL Players’ Association and United Steelworkers join together to take on gender-based violence
USW and CFLPA to train members to "Be More Than a Bystander" and stand up against all forms of gender-based violence.
120 food banks across Canada receive $233,750 from the Steelworkers Humanity Fund
“While we must do our part through our annual donations, we continue to demand bold action from our governments to tackle the root causes of inequalities.”
USW demands federal action to stop new U.S. softwood lumber tariffs
"Tens of thousands of families in more than 600 communities across Canada depend on our forestry sector. The federal government needs to finally fix this conflict for good.”
Ken Neumann’s statement for December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Union education and political action are two ways to help end the violence.
Breastfeeding and mining belong together
At the Highland Valley Copper mine in B.C., parents returning to work from maternity and parental leave get safe places provided by the employer where they can express and store breast milk, an initiative of the local's Women's Committee.
2021 USW Cares, District 3 Jefferson Award winner, Laura Drennan
United Steelworkers (USW) member Laura Drennan of Logan Lake, B.C., has been selected as the recipient of the 2021 USWCares Jefferson Award for Western Canada for her long-time community service.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund contributes $50,000 to support victims of floods in B.C.
“A variety of programs and essential services will be critical as B.C. residents recover physically and emotionally from the devastation of flooding, and we encourage others to donate available resources and time to those in desperate need today.”
Steelworkers Humanity Fund to contribute to flood relief in British Columbia
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund (SHF) Board of Directors authorized a contribution to relief efforts to assist residents in B.C. impacted by severe flooding. SHF will contribute $50,000 to assist with relief efforts.
B.C. forestry decision will cost thousands of jobs and devastate communities
USW is speaking out against the B.C. government’s decision to remove up to 2.6 million hectares from B.C.’s working forest. The government’s deferral process of up to two years will have an immediate impact on jobs, families and communities across B.C.
United Steelworkers Union and TELUS Kick Off Contract Negotiations
“The workers are engaged, fired-up and ready to go. They see that TELUS is a multi-billion-dollar telecom giant and are demanding respect,” said USW Local 1944 President Donna Hokiro.
Gender pension gap can be addressed by higher minimum wage and removing barriers to unionization
USW National Director for Canada Ken Neumann comments on the latest annual Mercer Institute Global Pension Index (MCGPI).
Facing Fossil Fuels’ Future: Challenges and Opportunities for Workers in Canada’s Energy and Labour Transitions
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $25,000 to Support Communities Affected by Natural Disasters in Haiti
United Steelworkers members respond to emergency needs of victims of Aug. 14 earthquake and Aug. 16 tropical storm in Haiti.
Indigenous Women Take Action Against Violence
Ken Neumann’s statement for October 4, National Day to Commemorate Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
District 3 Statement on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Today, September 30, 2021, a new federal statutory holiday has been introduced, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This new federal holiday is an important part of the reconciliation process.
2021 Winners of USW Scholarships
2021 recipients of various USW scholarships.
Steelworkers’ Generosity Earns National Recognition
USW members recognized by United Way Canada for their generosity and community spirit.
Results for Workers – Federal Election Letter to Steelworkers from Ken Neumann
While we may not want this election, we still need to participate. It’s a chance for Steelworkers to have our say. Elections matter and your vote matters, too!
This Labour Day, let’s stand up to protect Canadian jobs
Every Labour Day we come together with our union family to recognize our labour history, our struggles and the victories we have achieved. As we move out of the pandemic, workers need to be at the forefront of rebuilding our economy.
USW Statement: Stay of Proceedings in Case of Workplace Death of Sam Fitzpatrick
“Sam and the Fitzpatrick family deserved justice. We will not give up our fight for Sam or the thousands of workers who die on the job due to employer negligence.”
Steelworkers, Gerdau – Manitoba Metallics Raw Materials Reach Deal
The members of United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 8740 have ratified a tentative agreement reached with Gerdau – Manitoba Metallics Raw Materials in Selkirk, Man., on Aug. 24, 2021.
Federal Election Telephone Town Halls for Steelworkers
Join Steelworkers in these telephone town halls to talk about union issues as well as hear about how our union is engaged in the 2021 federal election.
David Ellis Scholarships Awarded to Four District 3 Recipients
Four David Ellis scholarships from District 3 of $500 each were awarded to help selected high school students continue their education at university, college or another educational institution.
Steelworkers, AltaSteel Reach Deal
The members of the United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 5220 have ratified their new tentative agreement reached with AltaSteel Inc. in Edmonton, Alta., on Aug. 16, 2021.
SURVEY: What's important to Steelworkers in this upcoming federal election?
A federal election has been called for September 20 and we want to know what issues are most important to Steelworkers!
This summer, the Family & Community Education Fund is accepting large-scale project submissions on a rolling basis!
Send us your large project submissions any time over the summer! As always, there are no deadlines to submit to the FCEF for projects under $5,000.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $45,000 to Support Bangladeshi Garment Workers Affected by Corporate Wage Theft
“Canadian garment brands and retailers have a responsibility to protect the incomes of the women working in their global supply chains.”
2021 Steelworkers Vote Courses – More Dates Added
Apply now for Steelworkers Vote schools in September and October. Our virtual and in-person campaign schools will prepare you to get active in the next federal election.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $50,000 to Support Victims of Wildfires in B.C.
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is contributing $50,000 to the United Way’s BC Wildfire Recovery Fund, to provide immediate and longer-term support to victims of the wildfires in British Columbia.
Statement on the Devastating Wildfire in Lytton, B.C.
After setting all-time Canadian heat records, a devastating wildfire has destroyed 90% of the village of Lytton, B.C. USW District 3 has received reports from USW Local 7619 that multiple homes of Steelworkers have been lost in the wildfire.
Victoria Starbucks Workers Brew Up First Contract
“We are excited now that the contract is done and to see the workplace changes that will come along with it.”
Steelworkers Ratify Renewed Contract with Chances Casino in Abbotsford
Members of USW Local 2009 have ratified a renewed collective agreement with Playtime Gaming at the Chances Casino in Abbotsford, B.C. The ratification follows two days on the picket line after the employer locked out the workers.
Statement From USW District 3 On The Discovery Of Unmarked Graves At Residential School Sites
The United Steelworkers union in District 3 is heartbroken and horrified by the discovery of over 1,000 unmarked graves of children and adults at residential school sites in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and British Columbia over the past month.
Living Next Door to Genocide
"The news of the discovery of 751 unmarked graves near that Marieval “school” fills me with profound grief and makes me reflect." – USW National Director Ken Neumann
USW Calls on Federal Government to Crack Down on Anti-Worker Practices by Canadian Mining Companies
The federal government must ensure Canadian companies operating abroad respect human rights and freedom of association as required by the CUSMA.
Steelworkers Welcome Workers from The Wellington Retirement Residence
The United Steelworkers (USW) is excited to welcome 80 workers from The Wellington Retirement Residence in Medicine Hat, Alta., who have voted overwhelmingly to join the union.
Taking Steps Toward Reconciliation at the Bargaining Table
In June, Steelworkers celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, and the rich history of the many Indigenous Peoples of this land throughout the entire month.
Get Notified When Steelworkers Vote Is Offered Again
Sign up to be notified when we schedule the next course dates for Steelworkers Vote, a three-day online course to prepare Steelworkers to be active during the next federal election.
Steelworkers, NorSask Forest Achieve Groundbreaking Recognition and Reconciliation Language in Five-year Agreement
The United Steelworkers (USW) Local 1-184 and NorSask Forest Products have concluded a groundbreaking, five-year collective bargaining agreement for members at the sawmill’s operation, 256 kilometres northwest of Prince Albert, Sask.
USW Denounces Religious Hate Crime in London, Ont., Calls for Action
Steelworkers express our grief and send condolences to the family of those who died, and best wishes for the young survivor. We call on governments at all levels to strengthen laws related to race and religious hatred.
Steelworkers Urge Federal MPs to Protect Pensioners and Workers in Bankruptcies
“This is an opportunity to get this issue resolved before the next election.”
Residential School Cemeteries: Grief and Truth
Ken Neumann’s statement for June, National Indigenous History Month.
Canada's Steel Industry Has A Secret Weapon That Could Soon Beat China's Cheaper Bid
Canadian steel has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world, a standard that may soon carry more weight than price.
The Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) is now accepting applications for Labour Day celebrations!
After our June 11th deadline, the final large-scale submission date for 2021 is in the Fall. Reach out to Gabriele Simmons, the FCEF Fund Co-ordinator, for support with your application and/or to begin contributing to the Fund.
Got the Shot: Steelworkers happy, relieved to receive COVID-19 vaccines
As vaccinations across the country ramp up, we talked to some Steelworkers working in health care about their experiences and what being vaccinated means for them.
Steelworkers Honour the 29th Anniversary of the Westray Mine Disaster
Twenty-nine years later, the Steelworkers union continues to fight for employers to be held criminally responsible for workplace injuries and death.
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund Provides $5,000 to Support Victims of COVID-19 in India
Confronted with the critical situation in India, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund has provided emergency funds totalling $5,000 to Oxfam-Quebec to strengthen the COVID-19 humanitarian response, and to support economic stimulus.
Steelworkers Assist Evacuations at Seniors Care Facility in St. Albert
A fire ripped through the Citadel Mews in St. Albert, Alta., on Thursday night, causing extensive fire, smoke and water damage. Steelworkers along with first responders and volunteers safely evacuated 129 residents at Citadel Care Centre in under 45 min.
United Steelworkers National Director Announces Retirement
Longtime United Steelworkers union (USW) National Director for Canada Ken Neumann announced today he will not seek re-election in the union’s international elections this fall.
Ken Neumann Statement on Asian Heritage Month 2021
In May each year, Steelworkers join with communities celebrating Asian Heritage Month.
Improving Democracy at the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC)
USW delegates to CLC Convention – Support the constitutional resolution to improve CLC democracy.
We Can Help Bangladeshi Garment Workers, Who Still Struggle Eight Years After Factory Collapse
Changes that will improve the lives of millions of garment workers are within reach – if Canadian retailers and brands are prepared to act.
Day of Mourning 2021
A joint letter from the Canadian Directors.
Mourning: A Steelworker Account
"Today I am writing to you about my experiences as a unionized worker, and the April 28th Day of Mourning. It’s not easy."
B.C. Budget 2021 Makes Strong Investments to Keep British Columbians Working
The B.C. NDP government budget for 2021 announced strong investments in infrastructure projects that will create new jobs and opportunities for people.
Federal Budget 2021 Overview
An overview of the federal budget 2021 from the United Steelworkers of Canada
Federal Budget Must Help Workers and Strengthen Canada: Steelworkers
“The Liberals need to stop making promises they have no intention of keeping and present a concrete plan to support people in need.” - Ken Neumann
Alma Steelworkers Raise the Bar on Women’s Health and Safety
Local 9490 activists launch joint labour-management process to tackle women’s health and safety issues at the Rio Tinto aluminum smelter in Alma, Que.
Steelworkers Help Make 2021 Federal NDP Convention a Success
USW delegates helped make history at the recent 2021 Federal NDP Convention. We helped elect a Steelworker as President of the party: congrats to Dhananjai (DJ) Kohli, who is the first racialized person in the role!
Submit your applications now for the Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF)!
The Spring deadline for Family & Community Education Fund (FCEF) projects over $5,000 is April 16, 2021! Are you a contributing local? Click here to find out more.
Federal Prison Chaplains Improve Working Conditions, Ratify First Union Contract
Members of the United Steelworkers, Canada's prison chaplains have achieved a contract aimed at improving working conditions and spiritual care to thousands of inmates.
United Steelworkers Union: Build Back Better Through Infrastructure Spending on Both Sides of the Border
The Steelworkers union sees U.S. President Joe Biden’s American Jobs Plan as an opportunity to maintain and create jobs, bolster manufacturing and make our communities safer on both sides of the border.
Closing the Wage Gap Needs an Economic Recovery for Women: Ken Neumann’s Statement for Equal Pay Day 2021
Each year in early April, we “celebrate” Equal Pay Day, but it’s not much of a celebration, marking how many extra days into 2021 it takes the average Canadian woman to earn as much as the average man earned in the twelve months of 2020.
The Conservative Pitch For More Union Votes Doesn’t Scare the NDP. Should It?
Kyle Wolff, president of USW Local 7619, shares his thoughts about the federal Conservatives’ recent overtures to private sector union members. “Put it this way, when’s the last time a Conservative or a Liberal phoned me to talk about labour? Never.”
Judgment Reached in Case Between USW Local 2009 versus Ghag
The United Steelworkers are pleased with the recent Supreme Court of British Columbia ruling from Justice Macintosh in the case between USW Local 2009 and Sonny Ghag. The case has been ongoing for over 17 years.
Steelworker Summer 2021 – Applications Now Open!
Steelworker Summer in District 3 is a wonderful opportunity for Steelworkers' sons and daughters to earn some money and learn about our Union.
New Report Links Canadian Retailers to Never-Ending Hardships of Bangladeshi Garment Workers
Steelworkers Humanity Fund report establishes clear connection between Canadian retailers and Bangladeshi garment factories that trap workers – primarily women – in poverty and struggle.
USW Supports Team Unite the CLC!
The United Steelworkers union is calling on local union leaders to send delegates to the upcoming online Canadian Labour Congress Convention – June 16-18.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Setting Up New Partnerships to Support Women’s Rights in the Workplace in Bolivia and Peru
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is establishing partnerships with organizations in Bolivia and Peru to amplify women workers’ voices and rights in the mining, municipal and retail sectors, and to raise awareness on gender-based violence issues.
USW Expresses Hopes for a More Equitable Post-Pandemic Future
“As we mourn the loss of life over the last year and reflect on the impact of the pandemic, we know the work is even more urgent to fight for the changes we need to make workers safer and our country fairer.” – Ken Neumann, USW National Director
Statement on the Tragic Death of a Steelworker Near Gold River, B.C.
The United Steelworkers union is deeply saddened by the death of one of its members, Chris Bohn, on Monday, March 1, 2021, who was working at a logging site, Tree Farm Licence 19, near Gold River, B.C.
Now Accepting Applications for 2021 David Ellis Scholarships
For 2021, District 3 Director Stephen Hunt is offering five scholarships of $500 to help selected high school students continue their education at university, college or another educational institution.
Canada Had to Test Masks in Florida
The Department of Health was so poorly prepared for the outbreak of the pandemic it had to send masks to Florida for safety testing, say internal records.
Kenney’s Budget Fails Alberta Workers
The provincial budget from the Kenney UCP government fails workers in Alberta. Yesterday, Alberta Finance Minister Travis Toews tabled budget 2021, a budget he said was “focused on what matters most today – on health care and on jobs.”
Steelworkers Call Out Liberals’ Failure on Pharmacare
“When the chance came for action on a policy that would save people’s lives, the Liberals failed. They teamed up with the Conservatives and voted ‘No’,” said USW National Director Ken Neumann.
Ken Neumann’s Statement for International Women’s Day 2021
USW makes work and activism more accessible for women.
USW Sees Opportunity for Canadian Workers as Trudeau and Biden Meet
"The new president's stated commitments offer the perfect opportunity for the prime minister to seek Canadian exemptions to Buy American policies, permanently resolve the softwood lumber dispute and start incorporating our countries' climate plans."
United Steelworkers Denounces Possible Increase to U.S. Softwood Duties, Calls for Reversal
“There is no justification to increase duties. Our union is calling on the new administration to reverse this approach.” – Ken Neumann
United Steelworkers Local 1-1937 and Huu-ay-aht First Nations Commit to Advancing Reconciliation and Job Creation on TFL 44
The United Steelworkers union Local 1-1937 (USW) and the Huu-ay-aht First Nations (Huu-ay-aht) announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a process for the parties to work together.
USW Demands Justice for Victims of Grupo Mexico
On 15th anniversary of deadly Pasta de Conchos mine disaster, Steelworkers and Los Mineros renew demand for justice and accountability.
Take Action: Urge Your MP to Vote Yes to Pharmacare
Momentum is growing for NDP Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Julian’s private member’s bill, Bill C-213, An Act to Enact Pharmacare. Steelworkers can help.
What’s Your Work Story? Write for Our Times
Call for submissions for USW members to write your work story for Our Times magazine.
When it Comes to Building Materials, Canada Has a Climate Advantage to Use (or Lose)
New U.S. President Joe Biden has a USD $2-trillion plan to build America’s clean economy. That’s trillion with a t. The good news for us: when it comes to the carbon footprint of these construction materials, Canada has a unique advantage.
New Project Templates for the Family and Community Education Fund
Project templates from the Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) make planning and hosting Steelworker events easier!
Federal Prison Chaplains Negotiate Landmark First Union Contract
“This agreement comes at a critical time for Canada’s prison chaplains and the inmates for whom they provide spiritual care.” - Ken Neumann
Launch of District 3 NextGen Network
We are excited to announce the launch of our second network, the District 3 NextGen Network. The NextGen Network was created to inspire and connect all of our young members (35 and under) from across Western Canada.
Canada Should “Buy Clean” to Cut Emissions and Boost the Economy
“We need our governments to support the creation and retention of good jobs by strengthening Canadian industrial and manufacturing capacities in ways that support the low-carbon transition of the economy.” – Ken Neumann, USW National Director
Unity and Strength for Forestry Workers – ACT NOW!
Right now, thousands of USW members and forestry workers could be in danger of losing their livelihoods. Decisions are being made that could affect the future of the forestry employment industry in British Columbia.
Canadian Steel Plants Require More Orders from Governments
“We cannot afford more job losses and more good-paying Canadian jobs moved offshore.” - Stephen Hunt
Workers in a Pandemic Need More Than Being Told to ‘Just Stay Home’
In this opinion article in iPolitics, USW National Director Ken Neumann writes about why workers need more than just well-meaning words to stay home and safe during the pandemic.
Ken Neumann Statement for Black History Month
In our union’s proud history of promoting and supporting equality, Steelworkers celebrate Black History Month each February.
Why Hundreds Were Infected at the Cargill Meat Plant
The Cargill meat plant in High River Alberta has been the Canadian workplace with the highest incident of COVID-19 infection. A worker has died and the RCMP has opened an investigation into his death.
Launch of District 3 Women of Steel Network
We are excited to announce the launch of the District 3 Women of Steel Network! The Network is an opportunity for all sisters who want to connect with other sisters across Western Canada. This is not a committee and is open to all sisters to join.
Donna is Raising the Bar on Women’s Health and Safety
Late last year, the USW launched an important new campaign: Raising the Bar on Women’s Health and Safety. Local union leaders and activists are off to a running start in 2021.
RCMP Launches Criminal Investigation into COVID-19 Death at Cargill
“The events leading up to the death of a worker at the Cargill meat processing plant are inexcusable and must be investigated through a criminal lens.” Stephen Hunt
Editorial: Self-sufficiency a worthy aim
A union official this week called for all levels of government to embrace “Buy Canadian” policies in order to protect Canadian jobs.
Our New Year’s Resolution: Let’s Buy Canadian
It’s time that we demand all levels of government adopt Buy Canadian policies to protect Canadian jobs. It's disturbing that bridges, pipelines and other infrastructure projects are being built with imported steel. We must do better by buying local.
FCEF Application Deadline Fast Approaching
The Family and Community Education Fund (FCEF) wants to fund your next membership engagement event. January 22, 2021, is our next project deadline for initiatives costing more than $5,000!
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $10,000 to Alleviate Growing Humanitarian Crisis in Ethiopia
“It is my hope that our support will help alleviate this crisis and encourage other progressive organizations to do the same so the world does not face another humanitarian disaster.” - Ken Neumann