Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP celebrate Labour Day

TORONTO – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Ontario NDP, issued the following statement to commemorate Labour Day and celebrate the power of workers:

“When workers stand together, they are unstoppable.

For 130 years, Canadians have celebrated the struggles and accomplishments of the union movement on Labour Day. For the NDP, a party formed by and for working people, the day holds special significance.

Together, we’ve fought for and won better wages and safer workplaces and used our collective power to advance the rights of all. This progress came from hard work, organizing and fighting back – from the workplace to the picket lines, in the courts and at the ballot box.

Over the last year we have seen huge gains for workers across the province. Today is a day to celebrate these accomplishments, but our work is not over.

People across the province are struggling with the rising cost of living and the skyrocketing cost of housing. Women and racialized workers are still more likely to be working precarious jobs for less pay and fewer benefits. Our healthcare system is under threat of privatization.

Instead of working to strengthen public services and make life easier for workers, Conservative politicians pose for photos in hardhats while passing laws that seek to strip workers of their constitutional rights to bargain and strike for better.

In the face of these challenges, the lessons of the past century can guide us to a brighter future. On Labour Day, and every day, New Democrats are proud to stand with Ontario’s workers in solidarity, determination and hope.”