Freedom Seekers

UFCW Freedom Seekers,

     Every year in July millions of people across the United States and Canada celebrate Independence Day. Many gather together with loved ones; barbeques are hosted, variations of red, white and blue are worn, fireworks are watched, and cheers are made to the end of tyranny in the countries we call home. Do ALL the people who call Canada, and the United States home actually have independence from tyranny though?

     Since the day European feet touched North American soil, there has yet to be even an hour when all the citizens within could claim freedom from tyranny. We have celebrated our victories, as we should, for the liberties we gained through decades of strife, even centuries of battles. Yet, we are still not free. As we plan our celebrations for Canada or Independence Day we are under attack. In the USA, people’s rights are being slashed faster than prices at a TESLA dealership during a holiday sale. The effects of Trump’s oligarchy are equivalent to a nightmare for those who call America home, yet the destruction is not stopping within the borders, it is being felt globally.

     This is not shared to stop the celebrations and gatherings. We should gather, we should discuss, strategize, and celebrate our victories large and small. We should fill our buckets with the fellowship of others to help us remember who we continue this battle for; our world, our countries, our union, our loved ones, and ourselves. All people of every gender, color, religion, and economic standing are deserving of freedom and peace. Let us celebrate our strength and determination as we gather this year.

    Let us celebrate our strength as we gather this year and focus the rest of the year on ways to keep our independence and rights for future generations.

 The people united can never be divided.

  In Solidarity,

  Deliana Speights

  International Chair, UFCW Women’s Network