Issue 68 – 25, September 14th, 2025
Union Retirees Care About the Challenges to Democracy
Every year, on September15th, people around the world observe the International Day of Democracy. This day is a reminder that democracy is important, but it also faces many challenges today. Democracy means everyone has a say in how the country is run. It’s based on freedom, fairness, and respecting human rights. But today, many things threaten these ideas.
Democracy is both a goal and a process. It’s a goal because we want a world where people can live freely and have equal rights. It’s a process because democracy depends on people participating, voting in elections, speaking up, and working together. For democracy to work well, it needs support from everyone, our governments and community.
Union retirees fought hard to protect workers’ rights, fair wages, and good working conditions. These rights are part of democracy. If democracy is weak or if people do not participate, those rights could be taken away. That’s why it continues to be important for retirees to care about democracy because it helps protect the rights we fought for.
One key part of democracy is freedom of expression. This means people can share their ideas and speak out without fear. However, in many parts of the world, governments try to block or limit free speech. When people can’t speak freely, democracy suffers.
Democracy also means fair elections. Every person should have a vote and a say in choosing leaders. When elections are not fair or people are kept from voting, democracy is in trouble. Union retirees know the importance of fair rules and should support efforts to keep elections honest and accessible.
Democracy affects all parts of life. It helps protect the rights of workers, ensures fair treatment, and keeps governments accountable. As a retiree, you can help by staying informed, voting, and encouraging others to participate. Supporting democracy means protecting the rights you and your fellow workers fought for.
Keeping a democracy strong and healthy is very important.
Here are some ways we can help maintain our democracies: Voting is the most important way to participate. When you vote in elections, you help choose leaders and decide on important issues. Every vote counts, so it’s important to vote and encourage others to do the same.
Learn about the candidates, issues, and how government works. When you know what’s happening, you can make better choices and hold leaders accountable.
Freedom of speech is a key part of democracy. Support the right for everyone to share their ideas and opinions, even if they are different from yours.
Democracy is based on respecting human rights. Treat others fairly, listen to different points of view, and stand up against unfair treatment or discrimination.
Get involved in community activities, join groups or organizations, and help solve local problems. When people work together, democracy works better.
Ask questions, demand transparency, and hold government officials responsible for their actions. Leaders should serve the people, not just themselves.
Support laws that protect voting rights and prevent cheating or influence by powerful interests.
Help friends, family, and young people understand why democracy matters. The more people know and care, the stronger democracy becomes.
Vote, learn, speak out, respect others, get involved, and watch your leaders. These are simple ways to keep democracy strong and fair for everyone.
The International Day of Democracy reminds us that democracy is a shared responsibility. It’s not only about governments, but everyone also has a role.
Read more -International Day of Democracy | United Nations
Join in Making a Difference “Draw the Line”
Every day, decisions are made by our government and big companies that affect all of us. Sometimes, these choices lead to more unfairness, like low wages, rising rent, or cuts to important services like health and education. Many people feel frustrated or unsure if they can make a difference. But the truth is, your voice is powerful, and your participation can help create change.
One way to make a difference is through "Draw the Line" activities. These are events where people in communities come together to show they care about justice and fairness. On September 20th, many will join rallies, marches, and peaceful protests across the country. It’s a chance to say, “We want a fairer, kinder world.”
When we come together, we can show what we believe is right. Participating in community activities, protests, or rallies is a way to stand up for what matters. Whether it’s supporting fair housing, protecting the environment, or defending the rights of migrants and Indigenous peoples, your voice can help bring about a better world.
Right now, many decisions favor the wealthy and powerful. The government is cutting public services, supporting wars, and making policies that hurt workers, Indigenous communities, migrants, and the environment.
But together, we can push back. We can demand that:
The ultra-rich and big companies pay their fair share in taxes to fund schools, healthcare, and safe housing.
The government stops giving money to companies that don’t serve the community.
Migrants and refugees get permanent status and are treated with respect.
Indigenous land rights are recognized, and land is returned to those who have cared for it for generations.
Canada promotes peace instead of war and stops supporting violence around the world.
Change starts when people stand together. By participating in activities like "Draw the Line," you help show that we care about justice, equality, and our planet. Your voice can help shape a better future for everyone. Let’s work together to make a difference!
Read More (find an event) - Canada | Draw the Line - For people, for peace, for the plane
Blaming Seniors
There is an increasing trend around the world of blaming older people, especially baby boomers, for problems like economic inequality and social issues. Countries like Germany are seeing critics say that boomers took away opportunities from younger generations and broke promises for the future.
In Germany, many seniors make up a big part of the population. The government there is worried about paying for pensions because there are too many older people and not enough workers. To fix this, Germany is thinking about forcing seniors to work longer, even up to age 70. They also want to give seniors less money when they retire.
Some leaders say these changes will help the economy. But many seniors and workers don’t agree. They feel it’s unfair to make older people work longer or take away their benefits just because of money problems. Seniors have worked hard and helped rebuild Germany after wars and reunification.
The Congress of Union Retirees of Canada is very concerned about this international trend. We need to promote respect and fairness, recognizing the important role seniors have played in Canada’s history and success.
Watch for more reporting on these trends and ways we can respond.
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