AUPE Stands in Solidarity with BCGEU

 
We reach out our hands to the west in solidarity with our fellow workers in the British Columbia General Employees Union (BCGEU). Members of BCGEU have been on strike since August 15 to put pressure on their employer, the BC government, to return back to the bargaining table and negotiate a fair collective agreement. On August 22, as a result of that pressure the government returned to the table. The strike continues, until the employer agrees to the workers’ fair and legitimate demands.
 
Although the strike is centered around a few liquor distribution centers throughout BC, it is expected to escalate to many more BCGEU members taking to the streets if a new collective agreement cannot be reached soon.
 
Much like AUPE members, our fellow workers in BCGEU have been on the front lines throughout the pandemic. Also, much like AUPE members, when it was time to go to the bargaining table employers, such as the provincial government, refused to acknowledge and respect the sacrifices made by workers. 
 
We congratulate BCGEU members for demanding that respect and fighting for a fair collective agreement by taking strike action. And we send this message of support and solidarity and a firm commitment that they can call upon AUPE at any time.
 
This commitment is based on years of strong working relationships with BCGEU, and a mutual respect and understanding that we confront the same struggles, that we are dedicated to the protection and enhancement of public services and workers’ rights. We will never forget that BCGEU was one of the first unions to join AUPE members on our picket lines during the wild cat strikes of 2013. We are proud of, and value, our strong bonds of solidarity with BCGEU and we wish them success in their struggles.
 
So, if you’re in BC and you see a BCGEU picket line, please take the time to stand with these workers and show what solidarity between workers and between unions really means!