2015 ILWU Young Workers Conference
Thank you to everyone who attended the 2015 ILWU Canada Young Workers Conference. We had 156 delegates first time delegates including 10 international delegates from the MUA, ILWU Local 13, 23 and IBU-Alaska. The conference let the delegates experience a level of Solidarity and pride for their union which motivated and impressed all those who attended. The three main focuses of the conference were unity, equality and solidarity.
The first day began with the Pensioners sharing the history of the ILWU followed by Ian Ruskin after lunch presenting the Harry Bridges Play. Before wrapping up we were joined by ITF National Coordinator, Peter Lahay to give an overview on the ITF and their role across the globe. Pensioner Barry Campbell stressed how important it was for everyone to learn the history so that it doesn’t repeat itself.
The delegates from the MUA shared an update with what was happening back home with the Hutchinson’s Port dispute. Was an eye opening reminder that if they are willing to pull such tactics with workers there it will be only a matter of time before they try it here.
On day two Rene-John Nicolas and Allison Tremblay from Victory Square Law each gave presentations to the group. Rene-John spoke about social media and how to maximize it’s benefits and avoid its pitfalls. Assisting delegates to identify areas of risk. Allison spoke about Transport Security Clearances and all the numerous ways big brother is watching. Letting delegates know the various steps they could take if their security clearance was denied or if it was sent for an extended check. Brian Campbell from the BC Federation of Labour gave a presentation on Occupational Health and Safety. Informing delegates of their rights to refuse unsafe work. Dean McGrath, ILWU Local 23 President finished off the day with a presentation and greetings of solidarity from his local.
On day three there was a buzz in the air with the election for the new Young Workers Committee taking place before lunch. Although everyone would have to wait until the end of the day before the results were announced. In the morning Irene Lanzinger, President of the BC Federation of Labour gave an overview of the BC FED. Followed by Mark Leier from SFU Labour Studies sharing the four roles of creating a strong movement. That within every movement you need helpers, organizers, educators and last but not least rebels. The day closed with MLA Selena Robinson reminding delegates that every vote counts in the upcoming election. Sharing her personal story of losing and winning by only a few votes. Bottom line every vote counts!
A huge thank to our outgoing Young Workers Committee who paved the way and got the ball rolling. It wasn’t easy however every event you lent a hand to the turnout was ten fold of the previous year.
Our new Young Workers Committee is Richard Larsen (Local 505), Julian Demarco (Local 500), Hannah Aiello (Local 500), Stephanie Dobler (Local 502), Andrew Gwartney (Local 502), Danielle Burgess (Local 502) and our first international representative Brian Skiffington (ILWU Local 23, Tacoma).
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