By all accounts it was the best symposium ever. The symposium which was held at the the Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, Maryland was graced by the IAM International President Brian Bryant in a surprise visit. He thanked the Canadian IAM activists who were present and congratulated them for the amazing work they were doing for Canadian Politics.
CANADIAN IAM ACTIVISTS AT THE WINPISINGER EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER, THAT PARTICIPATED IN THE 10TH CANADIAN POLITICAL ACTION SYMPOSIUM.
IAMAW International President Brian Bryant addressing participants
“Engaging our members is crucial because it affects our working lives. This means it affects our families and our home lives.” these are the words of the Canadian General Vice President David Chartrand who was also present at the symposium. He stressed on the importance of political activism, in light of the upcoming federal elections in 2025.
IAMAW Canadian General Vice President David Chartrand talking to the Canadian Activists.
Derek Ferguson, IAM Canadian GLR for Political Action, said, “80 IAM political activists from all over Canada gathered at the W3 where we developed and improved our communication strategies and member mobilization plans in the lead up to the 2025 federal election. Together we will make a difference!” Ferguson has held the Canadian Political Action portfolio for five years and has attend every single Symposium.
There were interactive break-out sessions, where participants learned how to create Political plans and implementation strategies, gaining valuable knowledge and insights which they will take back to their local lodges. Our Local Lodge 1231 Vice President Kirendeep Grewal, Trustee Dorine Agendia and Peel Chief Steward Marene Robinson, made presentations to the larger groups after these sessions.
LOCAL LODGE 1231 VICE PRESIDENT KIRENDEEP GREWAL MAKING HER PRESENTATION
LOCAL LODGE 1231 TRUSTEE, DORINE AGENDIA IN ACTION
LOCAL LODGE 1231 CHIEF STEWARD OF PEEL, MARENE ROBINSON ADDRESSING PARTICIPANTS
“It was a fantastic symposium that taught us how to break down a campaign and get started.” said IAM DL 78 communicator Heather Johnston. ” We were energized to engage our Local Lodge members into getting involved in politics in our area, because without using your voice, you are just an echo.” She also made a special mention about Facilitators, Laurie Antonin and Brent Farrington from the CLC(Canadian Labour Congress), who were amazing and made the learning fun and easy to understand.