Stiles: Ontario NDP celebrates wins on International Worker’s Day and vows to keep up the fight

QUEEN’S PARK – Today the Ontario NDP celebrate and commemorate International Worker’s Day with an acknowledgement of the power of union solidarity, and the fight for workers’ rights across the country.

“Today we stand in solidarity with workers across the world, and right here in Ontario,” said Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition. “This year we have seen the inspiring impact of labour organizing and action, such as the incredible rally of support around CUPE education workers as they won their fight against Ford’s Bill 28. Today we see another win, and celebrate a tentative deal struck for 120,000 PSAC workers as a result of the biggest strike action in Canadian history. Big wins are possible when workers unite – and we will continue to stand in solidarity with the 35,000 PSAC workers who are still fighting.”

International Worker’s Day is a celebration of labourers and the working class that takes place every year on May 1. The tradition began in 1856, as labour action established the 8-hour workday.

“I often say that Labour never rests - that’s because we know the fight for workers’ rights is ongoing,” said Jamie West (Sudbury), NDP critic for Labour, Training, and Skills Development. “Ford is still fighting nurses and other public sector workers in court over his unconstitutional Bill 124. Workers in Amazon distribution centres and Starbucks across the country are fighting for basic fair wages and work. We know the power of union organizing, and I am inspired to see a renewal in the fight for workers’ rights.”

“We can’t take anything for granted,” said Stiles. “When labour rights are under threat, we win more for everyone by standing strong together. As Ontario’s party of workers, the Ontario NDP have been standing alongside workers at picket lines and in the Legislature this year, rallying for fair wages and conditions. We will never give up that fighting spirit.”