“Workers’ struggles are the same the world over”

President Thomas on tour in Africa to support community projects

March 14, 2008

OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas is now on tour in Southern Africa, visiting projects in South Africa and Malawi funded by the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which OPSEU supports through the union’s Live and Let Live, and meeting with trade union leaders.

“I’m proud that OPSEU has extended our union’s reach beyond our borders to help those attempting to cope with the terrible AIDS/HIV pandemic in Africa,” Thomas said. “I hope to bring back a better understanding of their problems.”

Highlights of the tour included a visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years, and – what else – a picket line. “It’s amazing how similar these (workers’) demands are to workers anywhere in the world,” says Thomas in his blog.

Follow the tour on Smokey’s blog at:

http://opseusefpo.blogspot.com/