The Ontario Federation of Labour stands in solidarity with Ontario students and those around the globe who are challenging governments for urgent and ambitious climate action.
“The Conservative government in our province has ignored the climate crisis, and cancelled programs that would help protect the environment,” said Ontario Federation of Labour President Chris Buckley. “It’s time for our governments to act to ensure just transition that will protect our environment and provide good jobs for all.”
Labour understands that to achieve a just transition to equitable environmental sustainability a broad consensus is needed. Unions know that the environment and good jobs go hand in hand. A just transition, properly implemented, will ensure that no worker and no community is left behind.
The OFL will continue its work through the Power of Many campaign and ongoing initiatives with its affiliates and allies to mobilize and drive changes that fight climate change, address issues of climate justice and stop environmental racism. We will work for a just transition to green jobs and supports for communities impacted by climate change and changes to the local economies.
Climate change is considered by many to be the single greatest challenge currently facing humanity. We are seeing more extreme weather events putting lives at risk, affecting our food sources, straining our physical infrastructures and placing the livelihoods of workers and others who depend on the land and water to support their families in jeopardy.
The issue of climate change is not separate from people, their communities or the local and broader economies. All are on track to be significantly affected by climate change. Not all communities will be equally affected. Those who suffer the most from climate change have the least control over the economic structures that have resulted in changing the world’s climate. Conversations and plans for action around climate change need to recognize issues of climate justice, environmental racism and just transition for workers and their communities.
Students around the world are mobilizing for events on September 27, 2019. For information on events near you go to: https://ClimateStrikeCanada.org, or https://Fridaysforfuture.ca
The OFL encourages affiliates to attend and bring their flags to show solidarity, and tweet using #FridaysForFuture and #ClimateStrike.
