I love the Christmas season. It’s a time to reflect on the year that is coming to a close, and with gratitude reflect on the many ways in which we’ve been blessed. Even in the face of hardship, if one looks closely you will find many things to be thankful for.
Unfortunately, all too many people have faced hardship this year. In nearly every corner of the globe, workers have faced struggles at the hands of political turmoil, economic collapse, warfare, poverty and other forms of injustice. In general, the global labour movement continues to decline, and employment is becoming more precarious and less rewarding for many.
Yet, in the midst of these challenges we can be thankful for improving standards of living for millions of people emerging out of poverty, for the rule of law in most of our nations, and for relative peace for many.
There has never been a more important time for the members of WOW to continue being champions for collaborative labour relations and social dialogue. The things that make Christmas so special are the very things that make WOW members unique among our union peers; community, family, harmony and positive relations with others.
Our common belief as members of WOW is that when we honor these values in our work as trade unionists, we will achieve better outcomes for our members. This year, as we enjoy a Christmas break and time with loved ones, let us remember that we are all members of the WOW community for this reason. As we welcome the year 2019, let us be inspired to advance the vision of collaborative labour relations and social dialogue for the sake of workers everywhere with renewed energy and conviction.
I wish all of you rich blessings this Christmas season, and great success in the year to come.
Wayne Prins – President
