Posted on: January 22, 2009 @ 12:05
A Truly Inspirational Meeting
I recently met with Madeleine Parent, who, at 90 years of age, is still a political activist. For those who don't know her, Madeleine has been a union leader, an ardent feminist and a defender of Aboriginal rights for more than 60 years, both in Canada and Quebec. But she is also a long-time friend of CUPW, where she has inspired many!
I can't help but be impressed with her steadfast optimism, her passion for change and her analytical skills. Madeleine has, I believe, what makes for a strong leader: the ability to keep your clear-sightedness and optimism for the future despite sometimes difficult conditions. Her class views are just as steadfast: the working class has to play a pivotal role in political and economic change.
We discussed several topics, including women's issues, equity-seeking groups and the right to strike. She believes more than ever that the place of women is in the struggle, and that unions must welcome all equity-seeking groups. And she was quick to say that without the right to strike, unions end up being just company unions in the bosses' pockets.
Madeleine loves our slogan, “The struggle continues.” She believes that the struggle must encompass every facet of life – labour, political and social – so it can build a just and equitable world.
Thank you, Madeleine, for your example, your strength and your resolve!
The struggle continues.
