People who are critical of unions and strikes sometimes forget union workers also enjoy public libraries, have garbage to be picked up and have children who are taking swimming lessons or are at soccer camps. The striking workers are willing to sacrifice those comforts and to suffer from lost wages to stand up for what they believe in. It's not about greed, it's about earning a livable wage under decent conditions.

Why are unionized workers always vilified for trying to stand up for themselves? Do people not realize that a good portion of the management staff receives "market adjustments" to their wages and benefits without the public ever knowing about it? Or that they receive the same percentage wage increase the union settles for?

It's because of unions that we have labour standards, safety regulations, overtime provisions, benefits and a collective voice. For those who work a standardized week, this weekend and every weekend are gifts to you courtesy of the union movement. You might notice there's an extra day to enjoy time with family and friends. It honours the sacrifices of ordinary working-class people who have always been the backbone of this country: It's called Labour Day.