Category: Respect, Equity and Inclusion

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to honour the diverse histories, cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. This month culminates in National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21 — a day to celebrate Indigenous knowledge, contributions and resilience.

As union members, we have a collective responsibility to learn from Indigenous perspectives and advocate for equity and reconciliation in our workplaces and communities. Indigenous members play an invaluable role in our union, shaping discussions, strengthening solidarity and driving meaningful change.

Indigenous Peoples have lived on these lands since time immemorial, shaping the country we share today. Advancing reconciliation requires a commitment to truth, understanding and respect — an effort that belongs to all of us.

As the Honourable Murray Sinclair once said, “The road we travel is equal in importance to the destination we seek. There are no shortcuts. When it comes to truth and reconciliation, we are forced to go the distance.”

Let’s move forward together, ensuring that justice, fairness and reconciliation remain at the heart of our union’s values.

We invite you to act by: 

• visiting the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, either online or in person
• reading the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
• using the resources and educational tools offered by the National Advisory Committee on Residential Schools Missing Children and Unmarked Burials
• seeking out learning resources on different topics related to the history, cultures and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples
• spreading the word and showing your support on social media with campaign images (posters, meeting backgrounds and more) and by using the hashtag #NIHM2025
• attending one of the pow-wows taking place this summer across the country and local events organized on National Indigenous Peoples Day
• joining Indigenous guides on a transformative journey on their traditional territories and enjoying the wisdom of storytelling handed down through generations
• taking PSAC’s Walking in Our Truth Together online course

Together, as Local 70713 members, let’s reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation by fostering a culture of learning, solidarity and celebration in honour of Indigenous Peoples. Each step forward must be guided by humility, respect and a genuine commitment to understanding.

Thank you to all 70713 UHEW members for your unwavering dedication to reconciliation and for ensuring that equity, justice and inclusion remain at the heart of our union’s work.Thank you / Wela’lin / Ekosani / Miigwech / Meegwetch / Marsee / Mahseecho / Mutna / Wopida / Gunałchéesh / Hei Hei / Marci Cho / ᖁᐊᓇᖅᑯᑎᑦ / Quanaqqutit / Nakurmik / Kukwstsétsemc / Tiawenhk / Woliwon

Each May, we recognize Asian Heritage Month—a time to honour the many contributions that people of Asian descent have made and continue to make in building Canada’s social, cultural, and economic fabric.

This year’s theme, “Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future,” reminds us of the rich histories and traditions within Asian communities across the country, and the need to continue fostering inclusion and respect in our workplaces and unions.

UHEW stands firmly against anti-Asian racism, discrimination, and xenophobia in all its forms. We know that equity and inclusion are not just values for one month—they must be reflected in how we support each other, speak out against injustice, and create safe and respectful environments for all.

We encourage all members to take time this month to:

• Learn about the diverse histories and cultures of Asian Canadians;
• Attend events and discussions (virtual or in-person) highlighting Asian heritage and voices;
• Support and uplift Asian members in your workplaces and communities.

To our members of Asian descent: your experiences, leadership, and perspectives strengthen our union. We invite you to get involved with our Human Rights Committee or equity networks—your voice matters and deserves to be heard.

Together, let’s celebrate the richness of Asian cultures and commit to equity and solidarity all year long.

June marks the beginning of Pride Season—a time to celebrate the diversity, strength, and resilience of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across the country. It is also a time to reflect on the ongoing fight for equality, safety, and dignity for all.

UHEW proudly stands with our 2SLGBTQIA+ members and allies. We honour the activists—past and present—who have pushed for justice and visibility, often in the face of violence and exclusion. Pride began as protest, and while we celebrate progress, we know the fight is not over.In recent years, we’ve witnessed a disturbing rise in hate and targeted protests across Canada. Now more than ever, we must speak out and stand together. There is no place for hate in our union, our communities, or our country.