More than 1500 angry and frustrated health care workers and their supporters marched through the streets of downtown Vancouver on Saturday, February 2. They were there to protest the Liberal government’s contract-breaking health care legislation that puts patient care and the livelihoods of thousands of health care workers in jeopardy.
Pouring out of the Stadium Skytrain station, the marchers proceeded down Georgia Street chanting “No justice, no peace”. They marched to the Vancouver Art Gallery and it soon became apparent that this rally had surpassed expectations.
Protesters listened to and loudly cheered the speakers who included HEU president Fred Muzin, BCNU president Deb McPherson, BCGEU president George Heyman, BCTF vice president Neil Worboys, David Cadman from the Committee for Progressive Electors, Jean Swanson from End Legislated Poverty and John Fitzpatrick from the Vancouver and District Labour Council.
NDP MLA Jenny Kwan was given a bouquet of roses for her marathon role in debating bills 29 and 28 along with Joy MacPhail.
Kudos to the HEU members from the Vancouver Hospital, UBC Hospital, G.F. Strong and Cancer Agency locals who successfully organized the rally and march over a period of a few days.