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"We are supporting Ken because he sees, like we do, the importance in articulating the value and contributions of unions to the broader public," says Clancy. "Undoubtedly, we must work with our members to build a stronger labour movement but we also need to talk to Canadians who aren't unionized about the role we play in improving the lives of all."
Ottawa (22 April 2014) — The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is pleased to announce its endorsement of Ken Georgetti for President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC).
In his endorsement, National President James Clancy said, "We want our unions to do good and to be seen to be doing good—and not just for our members. We want all Canadians to live better because of unions. I’ve spent my whole adult life as a union activist chasing that dream. It hasn’t been easy. But it’s getting there now. A big reason for that is Ken Georgetti.
"Ken has led us to do what should be second nature for unions: he has led us to work together—willingly!" Clancy continues,"This is no mean feat, trust me. More than once during my 30 years in leadership, I wondered if that kind of unity would ever happen. But now it has. Now, more and more of our members and the general public are hearing and listening to what unions have to say—and liking what they hear. It is Ken’s leadership that makes that happen. More power to him—and to us.”
Larry Brown, NUPGE National Secretary-Treasurer, echoed Clancy's thoughts saying, "The last couple of years have seen unprecedented unity within the ranks of the CLC affiliates, and the launching of a campaign of media advertising and membership mobilization that is making a real difference in the public perception of the labour movement, and in member engagement. These are challenging times for labour. We need real, program-based unity; we need effective leadership; we need an experienced hand on the wheel.
"Ken is delivering the kind of programs the affiliates want and the membership needs," said Brown.
From labour struggles on the job, to legislative fights in Parliament, Georgetti has been a staunch advocate for workers and their rights. But that's not the only reason NUPGE is standing behind Georgetti's leadership.
"We are supporting Ken because he sees, like we do, the importance in articulating the value and contributions of unions to the broader public," says Clancy. "Undoubtedly, we must work with our members to build a stronger labour movement, but we also need to talk to Canadians who aren't unionized about the role we play in improving the lives of all."
"This isn't an easy task," continues Brown. "It takes strong leadership, depth of experience and credibility. Ken has all of that."
More informaton:
Ken Georgetti re-election website: http://wintogether.ca
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE