UFCW Local 401 members are ready to fight back, even if it means participating in a general strike

Yesterday, your union sent out a survey asking our members where they stood on the Government of Alberta’s use of the Notwithstanding Clause to force Alberta teachers back to work. 

Our members responded quickly and decisively.

Within hours, hundreds of union members took the survey, indicating their support for Alberta teachers and their willingness to fight back against the UCP government’s attack on workers’ constitutional rights. 

The results of the survey include the following statements:

• 90% of union members support Alberta teachers’ fight
• 89% of union members believe the government should have made a greater effort to negotiate
• 89% of union members want their union to continue strongly supporting Alberta teachers
• 74% of union members are concerned that the government’s bullying will encourage their own employers to engage in similar bullying
• 78% of union members support threatening a general strike to oppose the government’s use of the Notwithstanding Clause
• 69% of union members are prepared to engage in a general strike to demonstrate their opposition 

“Our members have sent us a strong message about where they stand on this important issue,” say UFCW Local 401 President Thomas Hesse and Secretary Treasurer Richelle Stewart. “As an open and democratic union, we do what our members ask us to do, and we have heard their voices loud and clear. We will do whatever is possible to oppose this government’s unacceptable and unconstitutional attack against workers and all Albertans.”

Click here to learn more about the Nothwithstanding Clause and the impacts of its use.

While Alberta teachers have announced their intention to return to work, Alberta’s labour movement is mobilizing to continue fighting back and hold Danielle Smith and her government to account.

“Our union does not back down from a fight when our members’ rights are on the line,” continue Hesse and Stewart. “That is the history of UFCW Local 401. It is woven into the fabric of who we are. It’s clear that our members are prepared to stand up for what is right, and we will stand with them.”

We will continue to update you as the situation develops. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your Union Labour Relations Officer or union office.

Posted on: October 28,2025