A Champion for Workers and Social Democracy

Statement by the United Steelworkers union (USW) on the passing of former New Democratic Party of Canada leader Ed Broadbent:

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The United Steelworkers and our 225,000 members in Canada offer our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Ed Broadbent.

We join millions across our country in mourning the loss of a great Canadian, a champion for working people and an unwavering fighter for social, economic and political justice.

Ed Broadbent was a great friend to Steelworkers, to the labour movement and to working people everywhere. He inspired and was respected by so many Canadians because he shared their values and aspirations – that we can build a more-equal country, committed to economic and social wellbeing for all.

As Ed so powerfully wrote in the biography/memoir he co-authored, Seeking Social Democracy, “To be humane, societies must be democratic – and, to be democratic, every person must be afforded the economic and social rights necessary for their individual flourishing.”

Ed is widely and rightfully recognized as one of the most-accomplished advocates of social democracy in Canadian history, having spent his entire life, up to his final days, leading the fight for greater justice and equality.

Steelworkers, like so many other Canadians, will continue to honour Ed’s legacy through our commitment to building a better country and a better world.

Marty Warren
National Director for Canada
United Steelworkers