COVID-19 may change the way we celebrate Canada Day this July 1, but despite what this pandemic has put us through there is a lot to feel good about.
As a country, Canadians have put aside the differences that often divide us to work together to ensure COVID-19 did not get out of hand. Everyone worked together to play their part.
Those of us on the front-lines providing public services can look to the future with optimism and confidence.
Your heroic efforts during this pandemic have been noticed and appreciated by the people we serve. We hope it translates into action from governments in terms of getting the resources we need to provide the level and the quality of services that Ontarians need.
Of course, there is lots of work to do. Systemic racism remains a problem for marginalized communities. It must end and we have to continue to strive to ensure equal opportunities for everyone. Reconciliation with Indigenous communities must also remain a priority. And one thing we have learned during the pandemic is there is no shortage of bad employers out there that we must constantly keep an eye on.
None of these challenges are beyond our ability to solve if we present a united front and move forward together. We have never been more optimistic about the future than we are now.
From our families to yours, we wish you a very happy Canada Day!
In solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas, President of OPSEU
Eduardo (Eddy) Almeida, OPSEU First Vice-President/Treasurer