COSWL Cause

Greater Victoria Public Library Workers Fight for Pay Equity & Honor Nellie McClung

VICTORIA - Nellie McClung was a passionate crusader for equality, and that's one reason Greater Victoria Public Library workers are shutting down all branches-beginning with what would have been the legendary women's rights activist's 134th birthday today.

"If Nellie were alive today and saw how the City of Victoria treats its library workers, most of whom are women, she would raise bloody hell," says CUPE 410 president Ed Seedhouse, noting that one of the library's Saanich branches is named for McClung.

In a continuing effort to achieve a fair contract with pay equity, CUPE 410 members will shut down all nine GVPL branches today, tomorrow and Monday. Picketing will take place 10/20 and 10/21, and on Monday the union will hold a grand opening of its strike headquarters at 1609 Blanshard Street (2 p.m. until 6 p.m.).

That will be followed by a peaceful appearance at Oak Bay council's regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. The library workers will return to work on Tuesday.

To celebrate Nellie McClung's birthday today, CUPE 410 members will be handing out birthday cake instead of books.

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