Indigenous Canadian Media Workers Fight for a Union

Earlier this month, members of the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) announced their intention to join the Canadian Media Guild (CWA Canada Local 30213). Workers filed with the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) after a supermajority of the staff signed union cards. These workers are based across Canada with their main office in Manitoba.

APTN is a national Indigenous media organization, sharing programming that celebrates the rich diversity of Indigenous Peoples at home and abroad. This year it was nominated for 38 Canadian Screen Awards, including Best National Newscast and Best Comedy Series.

The Canadian Media Guild (CMG) represents 6,000 workers in the Canadian media sector. CMG represents a majority of the workers at APTN and has offered both guidance and resources to assist this newest cadre in their campaign for a voice in their workplace.

“APTN is a national treasure,” said CWA Canada President Carmel Smyth. “It’s the only network in Canada dedicated to telling stories for and by Indigenous people. It has been recognized globally for exposing the poverty and racism Indigenous people face. CWA Canada is proud to represent and support their work.”

In their mission statement, APTN workers stated, “As a community, we believe every employee deserves healthy and safe working conditions, guidance and support from their managers, the trust and independence to do their best work, and most importantly, flexibility to care for their families and communities.

“By coming together, we strengthen our ability to support one another, advocate for our wellbeing, and create a sustainable future for the people who make APTN possible.”

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This post originally appeared on cwa-union.org.