From the convention floor to the streets outside, CUPE members made one thing clear: the fight against privatization is front and centre in every struggle workers face.
CUPE members from across the country joined striking postal workers and allies outside the Metro Toronto Convention Centre yesterday to take a stand against privatization and defend public services.
The crowd marched across the street to Roundhouse Park, where the lunch-hour rally sent a clear message to federal and provincial governments: stop dismantling public services and protect good public jobs.
Powerful speeches were delivered by CUPE’s National President Mark Hancock, National Secretary-Treasurer Candace Rennick, CUPW representatives Sanjay Sapra and Sharon Paris, and CUPE 3313’s Lorna Shipley, who spoke about the impacts of privatization on frontline workers and the communities they serve.
“Ending door-to-door delivery at Canada Post is a brazen attempt to privatize a vital pulic service, and we will fight every step of the way alongside CUPW to protect our public postal service,” said Mark.
“I’m proud to be a member of Canada’s largest union, able to stand in solidarity with all of you as we say hell no to privatization,” said Lorna Shipley, President of CUPE 3313.
As public sector cuts continue across health care, education, and social services, CUPE members are united in their call for governments to invest in—not erode—the services Canadians rely on.
“Because we are a fighting union! We are 800,000 strong,” said Candace Rennick. “And we do not stop. When we fight—what happens? We win!”