GWEND JOHNSON "RETIRES":
[caption id="attachment_103" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Gwend Johnson at her retirement party"][/caption]
GWEND JOHNSON "RETIRES":
[caption id="attachment_103" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Gwend Johnson at her retirement party"][/caption]
There wasn't an empty seat - or a dry eye - in the house at Gwend Johnson's retirement party Friday night. A veritable Who's Who of the DC labor movement turned out to wish the longtime CWA leader well - and share their memories of a long and rich career - after 39 years in a range of jobs from local steward to Director of the Human Rights Department. Johnson's commitment and dedication were universally recognized and praised by leaders including former CWA President Morty Bahr, VP Bill Boarman, CBTU President Bill Lucy and Council President Jos Williams, who drew laughter and knowing nods when he described Johnson's legendary tenacity and tough-mindedness, even, "or perhaps especially", with her friends in the labor movement. "Gwend is the one you want behind you in a dark alley," Williams said, "you know she's got your back." Like Williams, Lucy urged Johnson (left) to "enjoy a few days off" before getting to work for the Metro Council, where she continues to serve on the Executive Board.
- report/photo by Chris Garlock, Washington Labour Council (used by permission)
April 22nd, 2025 is Earth Day. The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Ontario Canada (CBTU), the Enrich Project and the Toronto Environmental Alliance call upon labour and the community to reconnect with and build a relationship to the earth. Why? It’s simple – the extraordinary benefits of time spent outdoors should be available to all. Outdoors, is a great big, beautiful earth, where children and adults can learn about themselves through the experience of exploring in nature. One cannot love what one doesn’t know. If we want children to become adults who will care for and protect the earth, we must encourage a strong relationship with the natural world.
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU)-Canada stands in solidarity with all Canadian workers affected by the 47th US President’s recent application of 25% tariffs on all automobiles and auto parts made in Canada.