Solidarity
CLAC's solidarity network is comprised of 33 locals across the country. Members can support this alternative way for labour through their dues, which are paid to the union even though they are not covered by CLAC-negotiated collective agreements where they work and therefore receive none of the usual representation benefits of union membership.
What are CLAC's solidarity locals all about?
Solidarity members support CLAC's alternative way for labour through their dues, which are paid to the union even though they are not covered by CLAC-negotiated collective agreements where they work and therefore receive none of the usual representation benefits of union membership.
Some work for non-union firms; some are forced or voluntarily belong to other unions. Yet they all actively support a union that strives for justice, peace, and cooperation in the workplace, both here in Canada and overseas.
Why do people support CLAC even though they are not represented by it?
They believe that the old-style unionism traps people into Big-Brother-like unions that hold them hostage to an outdated adversarial agenda of worker pitted against management. Solidarity members pay dues because they believe the best way to effect change is to sign their names and become an active part of an organization that makes a tangible difference.
Do CLAC solidarity members make a difference?
You bet. In the early days, the union never would have survived without their dedicated, self-sacrificing financial support. Today, solidarity members help CLAC in two ways:
- Support in Canada – Though financially solid, CLAC still encounters challenges from other unions that actively oppose it. Solidarity locals and their members remind us who we are and help us remain true to what we stand for.
Much ongoing work needs to be done to pass on the vision of the CLAC difference so that a new generation of Canadians will benefit. Even after over 50 years, CLAC with its more than 50,000 members is still a relatively small but significant player. Your membership means that CLAC can claim even broader support. Membership makes a difference!
- Support Globally – CLAC solidarity members are key supporters of the union's international work. Canadians are blessed with progressive labour laws, good wages, safe working conditions, and the freedom to associate in trade unions. Sadly, this is not true for many in the world. CLAC’s international program works closely with like-minded trade unions in Latin America, Asia, and elsewhere to support basic rights and freedoms for workers. Through dues, awareness events, and campaigns, solidarity members can make a global difference!
What happens in a solidarity local?
We are excited about the opportunities to reach out to those who have not yet heard of CLAC or a Christian approach to labour relations. How do we do this?
- Through publications, such as Guide magazine, the union’s official publication. Here you can see for yourself the difference that a CLAC's approach to labour actually makes on the shop floor. Guide features articles about the work that CLAC members do across the country, updates on trade locals, events in the union, and much more.
- Through events and campaigns that highlight the plight of trade unionists in places such as Cuba, China, and Colombia. In the past, solidarity locals have launched letter-writing campaigns to the Canadian government and businesses and have protested the imprisonment of fellow unionists in Cuba. These events and campaigns are aimed at justice rather than conflict, and they do make a difference!
- Through seminars and banquets featuring speakers from all walks of life who deal with topics such as how unions help to make poverty history and and contribute to international development.
- Through speaking engagements and educational events for students at schools and universities across the country. CLAC is committed to helping students understand the critical foundation of life and work. A few of our many educational sessions for students feature topics on the meaning of work and calling and the mechanics of effective job searching; justification for unions from within a Christian perspective; and role-playing in simulated bargaining sessions, providing students with a first-hand experience of union negotiations.
- Through speaking engagements where we talk about the fundamental understandings necessary for a healthy workplace and the positive contributions made by unions in society. Solidarity locals also work with other organizations where we feel we can contribute to developing an understanding of the integration of Christian principles and practices, particularly in the area of work and union activity.
Making a difference
You too can make a difference by becoming a member of CLAC's solidarity locals. For a minimum of $10 per month, you receive our publications, are notified of upcoming meetings and seminars, and receive reduced or free entry to larger seminars. In addition, you gain access to CLAC’s benefit plans, our advantage discount programs, and other member benefits. Most importantly, by joining you are showing to the world that there is a better way, a better alternative to bitterness, hatred, and division in the workplace.
Contact us. If you have questions or comments about CLAC’s solidarity locals or if you would like to join, we invite you to drop us a line at 1–800–268–5281 or solidarity@clac.ca.