30th Anniversary Labour Appreciation Night Celebrates Community Champions

On November 21, 2024, the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown in Burnaby, BC, played host to a sold out gathering at the 30th Anniversary Labour Appreciation Night presented by Pacific Blue Cross.  

Attendees included members from Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley labour councils, union representatives, community leaders, and elected officials, who all came together to honour and celebrate the recipients of this year’s prestigious community and leadership awards. 

Guests were treated to a delicious buffet dinner, captured memories at the photo booth, and engaged in spirited conversations and networking over drinks. The 30th Anniversary Labour Appreciation Night, organized by United Way British Columbia in collaboration with the Vancouver & District Labour Council, the Fraser Valley Labour Council, and the New Westminster & District Labour Council, celebrated four remarkable leaders within the labour movement who, over the years, have exhibited exceptional activism and an unwavering dedication to community service.  

Michael McKnight, President & CEO of United Way British Columbia, set the tone for the evening, emphasizing that these awards honour individuals who not only make a difference in their unions but also contribute significantly to making British Columbia one of the best places to live globally. 

“The labour partnership is resilient because we both believe in a healthy, caring and inclusive community. We all contribute to that in a different way, but it’s a way that compliments each other and we look after people in times of need,” McKnight said.  

Lori Mayhew, Provincial Director, Labour Partnerships at United Way BC, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance and impact of collaboration between United Way BC and the labour movement, especially now during these fraught political times. She praised the remarkable work of labour activists across the province, emphasizing the collective effort to build a better, stronger community.  

The evening reached its pinnacle as accolades were presented to the distinguished awardees, who shared their inspiring stories and accomplishments: 

Janet Andrews, a dedicated union leader and community activist, was honored with the 2024 Joe Morris Community Service Award from United Way British Columbia for her tireless commitment to helping others. From her early days as a shop steward to her current role as Secretary-Treasurer of the New Westminster & District Labour Council, Janet has consistently supported and mentored others, championing health and safety, fair wages, and progressive political campaigns. 

Debra Merrier received the 2024 Labour Community Service Award from The New Westminster & District Labour Council. Debra has dedicated her career to supporting Indigenous youth, members, and initiatives, as well as advancing the labour movement. Through her many varied roles in CUPE and her collaborations on cultural education and Truth & Reconciliation initiatives, she has empowered many others and continues to be a strong community leader and advocate. 

The Vancouver & District Labour Council presented the 2024 Syd Thompson Community Services Award to labour lawyer, Janet Patterson. Janet has been a tireless advocate for workers’ rights, from leading the first strike at York University’s teachers’ union to founding the Migrant Workers Centre. Her notable achievements include critiquing WCB system changes and supporting injured workers through her advocacy projects. 

Randall Dillon received the 2024 Brian Harder Labour Leadership Award from the Fraser Valley Labour Council. Randy has dedicated his career to fighting for workers’ rights and social justice. A proud member of the NDP, he cites spearheading the resolution to end cannabis and hemp prohibition in 1993, which has since created over 150,000 jobs in Canada, as one of his biggest achievements. 

“As a not-for-profit organization, Pacific Blue Cross is committed to improving health and wellbeing for British Columbians. Labour has always played—and continues to play—a pivotal role in advancing this mission, and we take pride in being the chosen benefits provider for many union-powered organizations throughout the province, says Rob Chiarello, SVP, People & Culture at Pacific Blue Cross. “I’d like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to all the award winners for their exceptional contributions to their communities – thank you for the difference you make every day.”  

United Way BC continues to strengthen our province and support vulnerable people thanks to the support of the labour movement. Whether through volunteering at Food Hubs, organizing collection drives for campaigns like Period Promise, or making monetary donations, the labour movement’s invaluable contributions propel United Way BC towards its mission of strengthening vital connections and making a lasting impact on communities.