Milestone for United Latinos

The leadership of the UFCW Canada United Latinos recently met in Toronto to mark the group’s first anniversary and to focus on strategies that will strengthen the union’s relationship with Canada’s Latino communities.

The meeting held on September 10 heard from activists in three different Canadian regions who provided updates on various community action and organizing programs based on grassroots initiatives and strengthening alliances with social justice partners. Participants also shared inspiring news about recent campaign wins – like Respect for Guatemalan Migrants – that have made a real difference for Latinos working in Canada.

Coming on the heels of the Toronto meeting was the UFCW International United Latinos Convention, which was held in Las Vegas, NV, from September 17 to 19, and drew activists from across North America including a delegation from Canada.

“For the first time, Canada’s Latino workers were represented at an international union gathering by an autonomous organization that was created to better reflect their particular situations, needs and concerns,” says UFCW Canada National President Wayne Hanley, who attended the convention and led the delegation of UFCW Canada United Latinos.

With immigration and the rapid growth of migrant labour programs, the number of Latino workers contributing to the Canadian economy has grown significantly in recent years. According to Statistics Canada, the number of people in Canada reporting Latin American origins rose by 32 percent between 1996 and 2001, while the overall population grew by only 4 percent. Canadians with Latin American origin now make up one of the largest non-European ethnic groups in Canada.
UFCW Canada local unions can find out more about the United Latinos by contacting Victor Carrozzino at the National Office.

Vol. X No. 37 • September 20, 2010