Common interests

A group of Canadian labour leaders joins forces to point out that despite the CAW's recent shots at the NDP, the interests of workers generally and the NDP are still closely aligned:

Labour leaders must reflect on the choice that is being offered to sever their ties with the NDP. Let's do politics differently, it is suggested. Taking a page from the old school of AFL-CIO “Gomperism,” unions would support parties and candidates on an issue-by-issue basis. At the same time, we would ask our members to support a new type of politics that challenges the power of transnational corporations and global capitalism. Thinking members will correctly answer that you cannot credibly do both.

If the NDP and those in labour who now feel estranged would take a step back from divisive accusations, it may become clear that the present political moment offers the social democratic movement a tremendous opportunity. Both arms of the Canadian business party are mired in a justly deserved minority status. The NDP has elected a strong caucus with a record number of women and including MPs from the labour movement. Jack Layton is trusted by Canadians and held in high regard by everyone in this debate.

Our members, and Canadians generally, are open to a bold political alternative. We say to progressive Canadians, this is our moment to seize. Together, labour and the NDP are that alternative.

There's plenty of room for debate as to the precise role that unions should play within the NDP. But as the NDP has done all along, the column rightly focuses on what should be beyond dispute: that the interests of Canadian workers are best served through the strongest NDP possible, and that both the unions and the party should be seeking to build on the progress so far - both in NDP support, and in the consequential benefits for workers.