Hope In a Time of Uncertainty
As we look at the results of the 2024 presidential election in the U.S, it’s natural to reflect on the challenges our country is facing. But for those of us in the labor movement, there is also reason to find hope—and that hope comes from the unwavering resilience of working people and their ability to shape the future, even in the face of adversity.
The re-election of Donald Trump has undoubtedly brought a sense of uncertainty for many including our brother and sisters in Canada who are facing the possibility of a rise in right wing Conservatism that is spreading across the globe. However, it also provides an important opportunity for us to reaffirm our commitment to workers’ rights, social justice, and the fight for a fair economy. Many of us may have felt anxious or frustrated in the days and weeks following the election, but it is essential to remember that the challenges before us have always been part of the struggle. Our work has never been easy, but it has always been necessary.
Worker Power
The election results in the U.S. serve as a reminder that the struggle for a just and equitable society is far from over. For the ATU and the labor movement, this is a moment to double down on our efforts to organize, advocate, and support one another. Whether we’re fighting for safer working conditions, better wages, or stronger protections for all workers, we must be clear-eyed about the reality we face while remaining firm in our convictions.
Building Bridges
One of the most pressing tasks ahead of us is to bridge the divides that have grown so stark in recent years, even between our members. In the U.S. election, we saw a nation torn between deeply divergent views, and it’s easy to feel as if the lines between us have become impossible to cross. But I believe that the labor movement offers a space for unity, for working people to come together regardless of political affiliation, race, or background. We are bound by a common desire for dignity and fairness. As union members, we know that our collective strength lies in solidarity, not division.
A Hopeful Path Forward
Though we may not always get the political leadership we hope for, the workers of this country have never given up. This election, with all its complexities, underscores the importance of maintaining our focus on the long-term fight for justice and fairness. For us in the ATU in both the U.S. and Canada, this means pushing for public transit funding, advocating for safer and healthier workplaces, and demanding a higher standard for those in power.
In the face of uncertainty, our hope is not in politicians or in election outcomes alone. It is in the strength of our unions, the power of our collective voice, and the belief that when workers come together, we can achieve anything. Solidarity forever.