Obama inspires struggle for equity
January 20, 2009
The inauguration of Barack Obama as the first black
president of the United States represents a major step forward and hope for
the future.
Obama’s words from the base of Abraham Lincoln’s monument
can be adapted for our own union, as well:
“…if we could just recognize ourselves and bring
everybody together…..Latino, Asian and Native American, black and white,
gay and straight, disabled and not – then not only would we restore hope
and opportunity in places that yearned for both, but maybe, just maybe,
we might perfect our union in the process....”
OPSEU has always been at the forefront of equity. We were
one of the first unions to institute an elected Provincial Human Rights
Committee. And our Workers of Colour caucus, along with our other equity
groups, continues to provide leadership and support on the tough issues
facing our members of racialized communities.
Our own Fred Upshaw was the first black to be elected
president of a major trade union in Canada Even today, Fred is still
active in our Retired Members’ Division executive.
This week, we celebrate Obama’s accomplishment, and then
pledge as a union to continue to lead the fight for human rights and a
better world for all working people.
In solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas
President
OPS Bargaining 2008
