MISSION—The intersection of Highways 7 and 11 was the scene of a raucous roadside rally this morning, as several dozen CUPE 561 transit workers and their supporters gathered with placards and banners, drawing honks and shouts of support from rush-hour commuters eager to see an end to the strike that includes a fair deal for workers.
On Day 74 of the full walkout by Fraser Valley transit workers, this highly visible public demonstration reassured CUPE 561 members that Valley residents appreciate the work they do and support their fight for wages in line with other transit workers, and for retirement security.
“The public support has been wonderful, and this morning in Mission we really felt it,” said CUPE 561 strike committee member and rally organizer Elizabeth Roux. “All the people who approached us were very supportive, and the honks were many.”
More than 60 people—including CUPE BC General Vice-President Tony Rebelo and Regional Vice-President Sara Manchester, along with COPE, MoveUP, BCGEU and United Steelworkers activists—gathered at the intersection from 8 a.m. until 9 a.m., drawing local and provincial media coverage.
Following the hour-long rally, the members dispersed and visited four bus stops in downtown Mission for another couple of hours, speaking to the public about the strike issues.
To show your support for CUPE 561 transit workers, visit WeNeedALift.ca.
