LiUNA

By Anna Guy ------------------------------------------------------------------- The Labourers' International Union of North America (LiUNA) claims it is the most progressive, aggressive and fast- est growing union of construction work- ers, representing workers in the indus- trial, health care, and services sectors of the economy—and they are putting their money where their mouth is. I f you aren’t one of the over one hundred thousand Canadian members and retir- ees who have benefitted from LiUNA’s collective bargaining agreements, here’s some background on the organization. LiUNA was established in 1903 and has grown to every major city across North America. LiUNA members build the bridg- es, highways, dams, hospitals, schools of this country. LiUNA members have not only built this country, but as a major force in the middle class, they have helped sus- tain it. Founded on a welcoming and protective union for marginalized communities, spe- cifically providing training and job protec- tion for the many immigrant workers who came to Canada in the 20th century, Li- UNA fights for collective bargaining rights, to build a modern infrastructure that keeps Canada competitive and creates jobs, to strive for a sound pension system and healthcare benefits, to stand up for laws that acknowledge the contributions of im- AUGUST 2017 H business elite canada 3