Labour Day is a time to recognize the contributions of workers and their unions and their collective efforts to build stronger, safer communities for everyone. This year, on September 3, PSAC members attended and volunteered at various events throughout the Prairie Region to recognize the annual event.
PSAC members in Calgary joined the Calgary and District Labour Council and other affiliated unions to assist Calgary’s unemployed and underemployed residents at the 4th Annual Labour Day BBQ held at Olympic Plaza. The event has been growing in recognition and attendance since it began, and this year welcomed over 2,500 people.
The PSAC booth was a hit among BBQ attendees who were invited to play the "Stephen Harper Hates..." bean bag toss game for a chance to win prizes. Cupcakes and "We Are All Affected" campaign materials were also distributed. Band members from Allen Christie, a country band from Caroline, Alberta wore "We Are All Affected" tshirts, with "Harper Hates the Arts" written on the back for their on-stage performance.
In Edmonton, thousands of people attended the Edmonton & District Labour Council Labour Day BBQ at Giovanni Cabato Park. More than a dozen PSAC members volunteered their time, alongside many other volunteers from affiliated unions, to distribute hamburgers and hot dogs to homeless, unemployed and underemployed people. Edmonton fire fighters were handing out free ice cream.
Alberta has the lowest unemployment rate in the country, but there are still nearly 101,500 people unemployed, not including those who are underemployed, working in part-time or temporary positions, or looking for permanent, full-time work. Alberta’s unemployment rate in July 2012 was 4.7 per cent. The unemployed and underemployed population includes single parents, the working poor, expecting mothers, children, seniors, people with disabilities, recent immigrants, and others.
In Saskatoon, members assisted with cooking and distributing burgers and hot dogs at the Saskatoon & District Labour Council Labour Day BBQ in the Park. Other members attended the PSAC info booth providing materials for the "We Are All Affected" campaign and information about the cuts to the public service. The event was well attended, with hundreds of families in attendance including many labour affiliates. Aboriginal hoop dancers performed and explained the history of the dance.
At the Prince Albert District Labour Council Labour Day BBQ, PSAC members helped the District Labour Council to organize and provide the supplies for the BBQ. Mayor Jim Scarrow helped to cook hot dogs and hamburgers. PSAC members set up a table with balloons, tattoos and various other materials. Music was provided throughout the afternoon by Constant Reminders, a musical group of young aboriginal boys ages 11 to 16. More than 200 people attended throughout the day.
Labour Day 2012 Photos
Labour Day is a time to recognize the contributions of workers and their unions and their collective efforts to build stronger, safer communities for everyone. This year, on September 3, PSAC members attended and volunteered at various events throughout the Prairie Region to recognize the annual event. Click any photo to view the entire Labour Day 2012 BBQs photo album.