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Highlights from BC Federation of Labour Convention 2024

Hundreds Gather to Shape the Future of Labour in BC

Last November, members of the Compensation Employees’ Union Executive, Stewards and Staff joined hundreds of delegates from Labour Unions across British Columbia at the BC Federation of Labour’s 2024 convention. This pivotal event sets the course for the labour movement over the next two years.  The convention featured inspiring speakers, critical policy debates, and internal BCFED leadership elections.

Leadership Elections and Representation

Delegates acclaimed Sussanne Skidmore as President of the BC Federation of Labour and Hermender Singh Kailley as Secretary-Treasurer for another two-year term. Lois Rugg, Candis Johnson, Janet Anderes, Stephen von Sychowski, and John Humphrey were elected to the Executive Council to represent provincial Labour Councils.

Advocacy, Policy, and Progress

The convention focused on the Federations’ political efforts, including issue-based campaigns, legislative priorities, and electoral strategies. Delegates debated resolutions addressing key issues such as permanent cost-of-living adjustment, universal pharmacare, a national dental care program, and harm reduction strategies.

A key highlight was the collective commitment to defending workers’ rights against the rise of hard-right conservatism while promoting progressive policies like tax fairness and solidarity between labour movements and marginalized communities.

Inspiring Voices

BCFED2024 featured powerful speakers who energized the convention:

  • NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh delivered a passionate speech calling out fake populism and advocating for a government that works for the people. Singh declared, “I’m not just running to be Prime Minister, I’m running to be the first labour Prime Minister.”
  • Fae Johnson emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between 2LGBTQIA+ communities and the labour movement.
  • Grand Chief Stewart Phillips and MLA Joan Phillips offered wisdom on building stronger solidarity with indigenous peoples and First Nations.

Labour Victories and Safety Initiatives

Hermender Singh Kailley highlighted the accomplishments of BC Workers over the past two years, as well as the challenges and opportunities ahead. Ishani Weera, Executive Director of the BCFED Health and Safety Centre, shared her team’s work in training and education to ensure workplaces remain safe and reject victim-blaming.

Engaging Union Members Across Generations

BC Forum President Sam Wiese encouraged union members aged 50 and older to join the forum and continue building the labour movement for just $20. Exhibitors at the convention showcased vital organizations and companies championing worker’s rights and supporting the movement. 

A United Labour Movement

BCFED2024 reaffirmed the strength and unity of BC’s workers in the fight for fair wages, good jobs and safe workplaces. The priorities laid out at the convention pave the way for a vibrant and progressive future for the labour movement in British Columbia

Workers across the province are standing together, stronger than ever, to shape a better tomorrow.

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