Our union is monitoring the developing situation regarding American tariffs and their potential impact to our members.
The full range of the challenges these tariffs will create is still unknown, but we are taking a proactive approach to assess possible impacts to the sectors in which our members work, focused on protecting your rights, interests and livelihoods.
In different ways, all Canadians and Americans will feel the repercussions of this unjustified economic attack by the United States government. Beyond the negative consequences on individual consumers and the broader economy, tariffs may affect UFCW 1518 workplaces differently, with some workers and businesses impacted more severely than others.
To ensure workers are supported and their rights fully respected, we are engaging in discussions with employers we believe will be impacted by this situation. Preparations to adapt contract negotiations to reflect this new reality are underway, and we are ready to initiate corrective actions if required.
Since January, we have also been in dialogue with key partners to ensure that our members’ needs remain top-of-mind as governments adapt their response. Our priority is to ensure there are plans in place to protect workers against the consequences of economic hardships. I have been in regular contact with the B.C. Federation of Labour, UFCW Canada, as well as UFCW International to discuss potential impacts to workers, develop outreach strategies, and build solidarity.
Standing alongside labour leaders, our message to the provincial and federal governments is clear: any support or initiatives designed to help businesses navigate these economic pressures must be tied to job protections.
As a union member, you can also join Canadians fighting back against American tariffs by pledging to buy union-made, Canadian products. You can find a list of UFCW 1518 food producers on our website.
We will continue to advocate strongly for policies that prioritize the safety of workers and the financial stability of working families. If your workplace is making any changes as a result of American tariffs that violate your collective agreement, please contact your union representative. Together, we will ensure that members’ rights are upheld, and necessary actions are taken.
Our strength has always been our unity, and that remains true now more than ever.
In solidarity,
Patrick Johnson,
President, UFCW 1518
