Prince Rupert Port Authority Supports ILWU, Diversity and the Fight Against Racism

EFFECTIVE JUNE 19, 2020

PRINCE RUPERT, BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) lends its support to the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU Canada) and the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association as they temporarily halt cargo operations at B.C. ports today to commemorate Juneteenth.

This date, marking the end of slavery in the United States, is being observed by millions of people around the world. From 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., there will be a work stoppage at some terminals at the Port of Prince Rupert, as longshore workers stand in solidarity with other ILWU International members to acknowledge this solemn day. PRPA stands behind this demonstration and the global efforts to pause and acknowledge the significance of Juneteenth.

Now more than ever, it is important to take time to learn from the past, recognize that discrimination and hate has no place in our communities or workplaces, and declare that we are strongest when we work together to build a better future. As we commemorate Juneteenth, and celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, it is an opportunity for each of us to educate ourselves on the history of Indigenous, Black and other minorities in our communities, celebrate their contributions and cultures, and recognize that there is strength in diversity.

PRPA is committed to diversity, inclusion and acceptance in the workplace and beyond and does not tolerate racism or discrimination in any form.

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ABOUT THE PRINCE RUPERT PORT AUTHORITY

The Prince Rupert Port Authority manages the Port of Prince Rupert, Canada’s northernmost trade gateway on the west coast. The Port of Prince Rupert anchors one of the fastest and most reliable supply chains between North America and Asia, providing vital infrastructure to support shippers and industries as they move their goods and resources to market. The port handles approximately $50 billion in trade value per year and supports an estimated 3600 direct supply-chain jobs in northern BC, $481 million in annual wages, and $125.5 million in annual government revenue. In 2019, a record 29.9 million tonnes of cargo moved through the Port of Prince Rupert.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES CONTACT:
Monika Cote
Manager, Corporate Communications
Prince Rupert Port Authority
250-627-2550
mcote@rupertport.com