In an inaugural gala Saturday night, the Sudbury and District Labour Council celebrated its 60th anniversary by honouring community members who have positively influenced Sudbury.
The Working Class Heroes Banquet at the Steelworkers Hall was a night to celebrate and recognize community leaders who have or continue to make strides in advancing health and safety research, giving back to those in need, protecting human rights or lobbying for change.
“A 60th anniversary felt like the perfect time to celebrate our history and our victories. I think we have some remarkable people in this room who have made so many contributions to our community; it is only apt that we recognize them,” said Jamie West, president of the Labour Council, and the provincial NDP candidate in Sudbury.
Among those honoured was Ric deMeulles, the executive community member at CROSH; labour and community activist Elie Martel; political activist and volunteers Maureen Anderson, Tina Vincent and Max Lafontaine.
“I have been volunteering for CROSH for 10 years, and they have nominated me for this award, which is very humbling,” deMeulles said.
“I am shocked, and I am trying to wrap my head around what I did to deserve this award. This is such an honour,” Vincent said.
Community leaders on hand emphasized the need for unions, especially in times like now when minimum wage hikes are causing major hiring disruptions.
Canadian Labour Congress VP Larry Rousseau and Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath were also on hand for the event.
