Members of the Human Rights Equity and Diversity (HRED) committee and UFCW Canada’s Indigenous Sub-Committee recently convened virtually to discuss the initiatives that will guide the committees’ work in the year to come.

Members from various regions across the country shared knowledge about the meaningful ways their local union is challenging racism and workplace inequities through an intersectional approach.

Initiatives such as scholarships aimed at supporting Indigenous youth and educational initiatives aimed at strengthening anti-oppressive practices, UFCW Canada local unions are exercising diverse methods to engage and advance workplace rights.

Collaborating on advocacy initiatives remains a core component of the committees’ work, as well as speaking out about the ways in which disability, race, gender and sexual orientation intersect and impact workers’ lived experiences when it comes to workplace discrimination, barriers and exclusion.

“New members have brought fresh ideas to the committee’s work and as a proud founding member of the Indigenous Sub-Committee, these meetings are important opportunities to build on diverse perspectives and approaches that counter discrimination,” says Indigenous Sub-Committee member Tom Biebrich. “Together, we can amplify our voices and work collectively to re-affirm workers’ rights through Indigenous perspectives.”

At the 13^th UFCW Canada National Council Convention, Resolution 5, called for the recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a paid day of observance across all provinces, along with Resolution 4, citing a national commitment to ongoing equity through human rights training and education initiatives. The committees have been working steadfastly to realize these objectives.

The Indigenous Sub-Committee and HRED committee are two of the numerous UFCW Canada National Council committees that work hard to advance workers rights across Canada.