Dear Members,

As we celebrate Labour Day, I want to take a moment to recognize the strength, dedication, and hard work of every member in our union. Labour Day is more than just a long weekend or the unofficial end of summer. It is a day to honor the victories we’ve achieved and to reflect on the struggles that paved the way for better working conditions, fair wages, and the fundamental rights that many of us often take for granted.

Last November, I gave a presentation to the House of Commons Standing Heritage Committee in Ottawa about the importance of the Forum exploring new and innovative financing models for public and private media. The news media is in crisis due to the dominance of foreign digital companies. Canadian broadcasters, journalists’ associations, news unions and many experts agree that urgent action must be taken to ensure adequate, diversified news coverage in all regions of Quebec and Canada. Canadians will have access to higher-quality information and entertainment if the people creating it have stable and fair employment conditions. 

As a cornerstone of our democracy, Canadian media plays a crucial role in informing, engaging, and empowering citizens, and this mission can only be realized with a robust and resilient media workforce. Media workers are the backbone of our information ecosystem, tirelessly researching, reporting, and disseminating news and stories that shape public discourse. 

Many of you have shared that you encounter comments from friends and family asking you to prove the value that you bring to your communities or justify the funding allocation to media. These comments are frustrating to receive, and the Canadian Media Guild is working to address the issue of media literacy and increase public awareness of the essential work you do to preserve and celebrate Canadian culture through high-quality content.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to stand together and build a better future for all. The challenges we face in the workplace and in our communities require our continued vigilance and solidarity. Together, we will keep fighting for justice, equality, and respect for all workers.

In solidarity,

 
Annick R. Forest  (she/her-elle)
President / Présidente
Canadian Media Guild / Guilde canadienne des médias