ATHABASCA - A second rally in front of the Athabasca Healthcare Centre in as many weeks last Thursday saw a mix of local workers, supportive citizens and unions members waving signs and wearing posterboards in support of the healthcare workers who walked off the job in a wildcat strike Oct. 26, during mounting tensions between frontline health workers and the Government of Alberta.
Health Minister Tyler Shandro announced Oct. 13 that up to 11,000 jobs across the province would be cut or contracted out just weeks after celebrating healthcare workers for their dedication to patients during the biggest pandemic in a century which led to five different rallies across the province, including in Athabasca Nov. 5.
“AUFA (Athabasca University Faculty Association) organized the rally as we felt the wildcat strike last Monday (Oct. 26) was an incredible show of bravery from AUPE workers who faced privatization,” said AUFA president David Powell. “As fellow public sector workers we also see our jobs at risk from our own issues like de-designation and outsourcing.”
Over 60 people attended the rally which marched in front of the Athabasca Healthcare Centre before gathering on the public space in front of the building along 48th Ave. and were joined by representatives of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) and the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers – commonly referred to as Iron Workers.
“We share the same fights, and we feel that the government decided to go after what they felt was an easy target — a sector that is primarily women and minorities,” Powell said. “Their incredible bravery in walking out on the job should be hailed as heroism, and all unions should stand by their side to ensure that they are not alone and we have their backs.”
Natasha Kapitaniuk attended the rally in memory of her stepfather Robin Breese who passed away recently after battling cancer.
“It is very relevant to state that his quality of life was greatly improved throughout his battles by the compassionate doctors, amazing hospital and home care nurses, and all of the healthcare workers who contributed to making his hospital stays and appointments the best they could be,” Kapitaniuk said. “Healthcare support staff are essential and they are not dispensable.”
Powell said AUFA organized the rally to motivate healthcare workers and let them know they are not alone and most importantly, to tell Alberta Health Services (AHS) management not to discipline workers who took part in the walkout.
“The workers do not deserve to be suspended or otherwise disciplined for their act of political bravery,” said Powell. “If everyone walks out, the issue is not insubordination, it is the job itself. The government needs to leave healthcare workers alone so they can do their jobs during this horrific pandemic.”
