Faculty, community groups, and workers at the University of Northern BC‘s Tim Hortons and cafeteria gathered for a protest Wednesday afternoon.
Their goal was to have higher-ups at the institute take responsibility for the low wages they’re being paid; some employees claim to earn less than the poverty line.
The initiative even garnered interest from the Secretary-Treasurer of the BC Federation of Labour.
“What I’m concerned about, is that the folks here in Prince George, who pay taxes in Prince George, are making a wage that’s decent enough after a full days work to be able to support a family,” says Aaron Ekman.
Secretary Treasurer of @bcfed, @aaronekman, speaks at protest action for Tim Hortons, cafeteria workers feeling underpaid @UNBC #CityofPG pic.twitter.com/Xj9pnkY7sT
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) January 24, 2018
The rally was not all for nothing as a small faction was allowed a meeting with a group from the university including Provost and Vice-President, Academic, Dan Ryan.
Jeannie Gilbert, a university cafeteria worker, was one of the members allowed in the meeting; she says it was very positive.
“They understand what we’re going through, they’re very supportive with everything that’s going on,” Gilbert says.
“But at the end of the day, we still want to get in with the President [of UNBC].”
If that meeting were to happen, Gilbert’s message would remain the same.
“Help us, whether you have the power or not, you have to find a way to help us.”
Workers, staff, and supporters gather @UNBC to rally for better wages for cafeteria workers and Tim Hortons workers in the institution #CityofPG pic.twitter.com/R5lAIrvGGG
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) January 24, 2018
Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
