By Olivia McDonald

Another Long Weekend Or A Day To Be Grateful?

Aug 31, 2018 | 4:28 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Union workers will take an extra day off next week in honour of the Labour Movement. Labour Day has taken place on the first Monday of September Since 1894 and people around Prince George are expressing what it means to them. 

Imagine adding ten more hours to your workday. Back in 1872 unionized workers were adding at least that to their schedule daily. Canada’s labour movement was fought hard for and the movement won many of the rights enjoyed by workers to this day. Unions are continuing to fight to protect our rights like minimum wages, workplace safety standards, protection from harassment and the many more.

Don Iwaskow, the president of the North Central Labour Council, explains the importance of Labour Day and the reason we should reinforce it every year is that labour has never achieved anything without a fight and we need to continue fighting for our rights. “Our rights can be gone with the stroke of a pen.”

For some people, Labour Day is thought of as the last long weekend of the summer, the perfect time for one last camping trip or family holiday. But for others, this extra day off means a little more. Matt Baker, the organizer of events for Labour Day says “it’s a day to reflect on what we have and just how lucky we are to have it.” 

Three years ago Prince George began holding a celebration for Labour Day and organizers say it continues to grow every year with more people showing interest. Roughly 2 thousand people are aimed to attend the event that will include face painting, food and live music. 

Tax season

Days away from deadline, 1 in 4 Canadians still haven't filed taxes

8h ago

Chetwynd wildfire

"Really quite terrified:" Chetwynd reacts to ongoing fight against wildfire

9h ago

Hospice looks to expand into palliative care

10h ago

Labour Day festivities will start with a march at 10:30 and will continue at the Civic Centre until 3 pm.