Solidarity of Workers Transcends Borders as Tensions Rise Between U.S. and Canadian Governments
ATU International President John Costa and ATU Canada President John Di Nino issued the following joint statement on tensions between the U.S. and Canadian governments.
“Over the past few months, the tensions between the United States and Canadian governments have become palpable and undeniable. Our Union reinforces its steadfast commitment to improving the lives of our members and all workers in both countries.
“The solidarity of workers transcends borders. Stronger together, we form a collective force that is both powerful and necessary to push back against the forces that seek to undermine our rights and diminish our hard-earned progress. The efforts of our Locals across North America will continue to lay the foundation for a better tomorrow, a better future.
“Our Union’s strength can be found in our groundbreaking collaborative work. ATU Local 113-Toronto, ON, and the ATU International have worked together to launch the first-of-its-kind Bus Design Innovation Program (BDIP), a project that enhances the safety of our members and sets a new standard for innovation in the transit industry for North America.
“Our organizing accomplishments in both countries have also been nothing short of transformative. We are growing our ranks and securing contracts that empower our members and strengthen our union. These victories, which would not have been possible without our unwavering unity, are a testament to what we can achieve when we stand and fight together.
“Every contract we win and every organizing victory we claim brings us closer to achieving the fair treatment and dignity that our members deserve. Our joint efforts across North America continue to lay the foundation for a better tomorrow, a better future.
“For over 150 years, Canada and the United States have stood side by side as partners, allies, friends, and neighbors. The actions of a single leader cannot cloud the relationship that has existed between our people. The bond between Canadian and American workers and our shared struggles is much stronger than any political rhetoric. We must resist the narrative that seeks to create division, especially from those who have little regard for the well-being of working people.
“This is a moment in history when unions are more essential than ever. Workers across both of our countries need to come together and fight against the harmful agendas seeking to weaken the labor. Our strength lies in our collective action, and the solidarity we have generated across borders is a beacon of hope in these times of uncertainty. Together, we can continue to move forward, building a future where the needs and dignity of working people come first. Don’t let them divide us. Stay strong. Stay united. We are Stronger Together!”