Over the past weekend, Unifor local 88 member and social justice icon sadly passed away at the age of 68. We send our thoughts and prayers to Cathy’s family. Funeral arrangements will be shared when they become available.
Article written by Alexandra McCoy
Femtor. Trailblazer. Leader.
One of the greatest women that I ever had the pleasure of knowing, loving, getting advice and guidance from.
The woman who held her hand back and took you along with her, showing you every step of the way.
The woman who always had your back.
The woman who let you walk in her snow prints so your feet didn’t get buried.
My heart is heavy, as are the hearts of many who loved Sister Cathy Austin.
From being the first female president of an automotive local, to spending countless hours (which equated to years) volunteering for various organizations, advocating, sitting on boards, standing on picket lines and dedicating her undying support to the feminist, youth, and labour movement.
An educator.
A leader.
Cathy was the epitome of what it means to walk the walk. She dedicated her entire life to helping and supporting everyone around her, including me.
We looked to her for….
Advice.
Guidance.
Strength.
Intellect.
Honesty.
An ear to listen.
A soothing voice.
Someone to tell you when you were wrong.
Someone to support you when you were right.
Unconditional love.
She was the reason many of us got involved in the labour movement. She believed in us when we had lost the ability to believe in ourselves. She ignited fires and passion in people to not only be better, but to do better.
She wasn’t afraid to speak up in the face of adversity. And, if you decided you wanted to speak up, she would be the first person standing behind you while you did it.
She was a seeker of the lost and a voice for the voiceless.
She had no qualms about speaking out about any injustice, often being the only person in the room strong enough to do it. I especially admired that about her. It was a beautiful thing to watch. The kind of voice that gave you goosebumps and hope.
And she was completely unapologetic for all of it.
The depth of my admiration and respect cannot be put into words (well it could be but this would turn into a novel). She changed the trajectory of my entire life, because she saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself.
Sister, you will be so deeply missed, but your legacy will live on through all of the lives that you have shaped, and the relationships that you have fostered.
My condolences to her family who I know will be deeply mourning her fierce presence.
Tonight I stand in solidarity with all of those with heavy hearts. I wish everyone had the pleasure of knowing her. I am beyond grateful that we had her for the time that we did.
Rest in power dear Sister, You will be dearly missed.
From all the members at Unifor Local 88.
Rest in Peace, Sister Cathy Austin
