On this International Human Rights Day, Unifor reaffirms our commitment to standing with workers, communities, and people around the world in the ongoing fight for dignity, equality, and justice for all. This day is a time to reflect on both the progress we have made and the significant work still ahead of us to protect the rights and freedoms of all people, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances.
Human rights are the foundation of a just and equitable society. However, we continue to witness alarming attacks on these rights, with people facing violence, discrimination, exploitation, and systemic inequalities. Unifor stands in solidarity with those who fight to uphold human rights and demand change.
Whether challenging anti-union legislation, advocating for stronger labour protections in trade agreements, or supporting workers in their struggles for decent work and justice globally, Unifor is dedicated to advancing the rights of working people everywhere.
The human rights and wellbeing of working people, especially women, racialized communities, Indigenous peoples, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and migrants, are under threat by policies that undermine labour rights, deregulate industries in favor of corporate interests, and promote devise rhetoric. We are committed to amplifying the voices of equity deserving groups within the workforce, to ensure their rights are fully represented in the collective bargaining process.
As a union, Unifor is proud to be at the forefront of the struggle to protect and expand workers’ rights—an essential part of the broader fight for human rights. We believe that the right to collective bargaining is fundamental to ensuring that workers can demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity on the job. The erosion of these rights in recent years has had profound consequences for working people across Canada and beyond.
Unifor has consistently raised our voice in opposition to any attempts to undermine the right to organize and bargain collectively. We are deeply concerned by efforts in various jurisdictions to restrict access to fair wages, benefits, and job protections for workers.
Today, as we reflect on the ongoing fight for human rights, we also remember and celebrate the resilience of those who have led the struggle for justice throughout history—many of whom continue their work in the face of immense challenges. We pledge to carry their legacy forward by continuing to fight for social justice, economic equality, and a world where everyone can live with respect and dignity.
A Call to Action
As we observe this important day, Unifor calls on all governments, businesses, and institutions to take concrete action to protect and promote human rights. We urge all workers to take a stand to demand a world that upholds the principles of equality, freedom, and justice for all.
We also call on governments at all levels to protect the right to organize and ensure that workers can negotiate fair and equitable working conditions through collective bargaining.
We know that only through solidarity and collective action can we build a more just, united, and peaceful world.
For inquiries on equity work within the union, email humanrights@unifor.org or women@unifor.org, and for information about the Unifor Social Justice Fund, email international@unifor.org.
Read this statement on our website.
In solidarity,
Lana Payne
National President