The United Steelworkers (USW) is urging trade representatives from the United States and Canada to resume negotiations and seek an agreement that protects workers and working families amid ongoing trade tensions between the two countries
USW International President Roxanne Brown made the call at a press event attended by union leaders from both sides of the border. She said the effects of the dispute are being felt by workers, industrial facilities and communities in both countries.
“This conflict is hurting jobs. It’s hurting facilities. It’s hurting communities. And it’s creating uncertainty for workers and families in both countries,” Brown said. “That’s why our message today is simple: We need both governments to get back to the table and find a constructive path forward.”
Brown highlighted the close economic ties between the United States and Canada, as well as their shared interests. She said cooperation between the two countries remains important to protecting those interests across North America.
“For generations, our nations have stood shoulder to shoulder in defense of our shared interests. We defend North America together,” Brown said.
“We are stronger when we work together.”
The union also pointed to wider challenges facing workers from global trade practices, including distorted markets, large-scale industrial subsidies and state-directed overcapacity.
“When countries flood international markets with artificially cheap steel, aluminum and manufactured goods, workers in both Canada and the United States suffer the consequences. Plants close. Investments are delayed, and jobs disappear,” said Brown.
“That’s where our joint focus should be. Our trade tools should be aimed at bad actors in the global marketplace, not at our closest ally and most important economic partner.”
Brown said the governments needed to address the dispute without further delay, given its potential implications for workers and industries in both countries.
“The relationship between our two countries is too important to be defined by division,” she said.
“Put workers first.”
The USW represents 850,000 workers across Canada and the United States. Its membership spans metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and energy-producing industries, as well as health care, public sector, higher education, technology and service occupations.
