Hats off to the Canadian Federation of Students

Hats off to the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS) for organizing a national day of action today to get the message across to Stephen Harper’s government that “education is a right!”

Our union stands side by side with students across the country, literally and figuratively, because we believe that education is the great leveler.  It’s at the core of an equal society.

That’s why it’s crucial that education be universally accessible, affordable and publicly delivered – available no matter where you live, no matter how much money you have.

With our economy in crisis, this government should be investing in the future of our youth – in jobs and in research and development. Clearly, that is the way forward. CEP members work hard everyday so their children can have a better future. But the government is not doing its part. It has no plan for the future of education.

Indeed, the fight for public education as a basic right for all is part of a global effort. Most recently, we have seen uprisings around the world lead by students. Chile is an excellent example of a fight that started about access to public education (last year) and became a catalyst. Now, millions take to the street regularly demanding a transformation of the Chilean economy. This week one of the Chilean student leaders will travel across Canada talking about their struggle.

Maybe that’s what we need right here in Canada to wake up the Harper government.  The work that the CFS is doing is crucial to all of our futures.  Congratulations and keep it up!