Tijuana, Mex. – May 22, 2024 – UFCW Canada was invited to share the stage at a rally held by presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum in support of migrant workers in April.

Claudia Sheinbaum represents the ruling Morena party in Mexico, running to succeed current Mexican President López Obrador, whose term is ending. Sheinbaum is best known as the popular mayor of Mexico City from 2018 to 2023. Her main opponent in the election is Xóchitl Gálvez, who leads a coalition of opposition parties. The Mexican election will be held on June 2.

UFCW Canada has worked closely with different levels of government in Mexico over the past decade in an effort to ensure that the rights of migrant workers in Canada remain a priority for the country.

During the rally Sheinbaum pledged to continue the crucial work if elected, fighting for the rights of Mexican migrant workers in Canada and elsewhere.

UFCW Canada’s Pablo Godoy spoke at the rally, saying “The rights of workers do not stop at the border. That is why it is important that UFCW Canada continues to work with all levels of government in Mexico to ensure that the rights and well being of workers are protected throughout the entirety of their migration experience.”

No matter the results of the Mexican election, UFCW Canada intends to maintain the crucial advocacy work for migrant workers on the ground with the government in power.

UFCW Canada has worked for many years forging relationships with the Mexican government and labour groups, advocating for Mexican migrant workers in Canada. In the past year, UFCW Canada has participated in the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program review between Mexico and Canada, signed a collaborative agreement with Mexico’s largest labour organization to better protect the rights of Mexican migrant workers, and more.