Statement by Bea Bruske on World Day of Decent Work. 

On this World Day for Decent Work, Canada’s unions are calling for jobs that respect the rights and dignity of all workers. Decent work means fair pay, safe working conditions, and respect for workers’ well-being. It’s about creating jobs that give people opportunities to grow, while protecting their rights to good wages, social benefits, and a voice in the workplace. 

Workers around the world, including here in Canada, are standing against corporate greed and political inaction that have left many struggling to make ends meet. Despite powering our economy, too many working people are unable to afford the basic necessities of life. Wealthy corporations inflate prices while dodging their fair share of taxes, benefiting only those at the top. 

A decent place to live and raise a family should not be a luxury. Yet, the housing crisis, driven by sky-high interest rates and corporate profiteering, has made home ownership out of reach for too many. Meanwhile, our paychecks are stretched thin, and families are left struggling as corporate profits soar. 

It’s time to demand a fair deal for workers—one that puts working people and their families at the forefront of a more equitable future. By ensuring that corporations pay their fair share, we can reinvest in our communities—making life more affordable, strengthening care systems, and ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable housing. 

Decent work is a right, not a privilege. Workers deserve fair wages, safe workplaces, and the ability to negotiate the terms of their employment. Today, we raise our voices to call for a future where every worker is treated with dignity and respect. Together, we can ensure that workers receive the better deal they deserve, as we continue to build, care, and fuel progress in this country. 

By coming together in unions, workers can push decision-makers to support us and hold wealthy corporations accountable. Together, we can build a fairer future where working families thrive.  

Let’s make it happen—join us at workerstogether.ca.