Content note: This episode includes discussion of gender-based violence which maybe triggering to some.

This special Strong as Steel Elevating Action episode is hosted by White Ribbon and the Canadian Football League Players Association (CFLPA), in partnership with the United Steelworkers union (USW).

In this episode, Zoey James, Senior Program Manager at White Ribbon, sits down with Andrew Peirson (BC Lions), Jake Ceresna (Edmonton Elks) and Maxime Rouyer (BC Lions) to talk about Elevating Action – a national partnership working to end gender-based violence and promote healthier masculinities, safer locker rooms and more respectful workplaces and communities.

Since 2023, Elevating Action has been training peer leaders across Canada to facilitate conversations that challenge gender-based violence, harmful stereotypes and the “man box” – from the field to the shop floor.

To learn more or get involved visit whiteribbon.ca. Talk to your USW Education Coordinator or CFL player rep about bringing Elevating Action training to your workplace, team or local union.

In this special Grey Cup edition of Strong as Steel, Scott Lunny is joined by two powerhouse leaders for an engaging, wide-ranging conversation about the strength that comes from working together. Filmed live at CFLPA Headquarters in Winnipeg, this episode brings together David Mackie, Executive Director of the CFL Players Association, and Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress.

Together, they dive into the importance of building strong partnerships across the labour movement and professional sports, the impact of solidarity on and off the field, and how collaboration can drive safer workplaces, better protections and meaningful change for workers everywhere. This discussion highlights why united voices matter and how collective action can shape a better future for players, workers and communities alike.

Tune in for a timely and inspiring conversation from the heart of the Grey Cup festivities.

In this episode, USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny talks two tough but inspiring strikes in British Columbia. He’s joined by members from USW Local 1-405 at StellerVista Credit Union in Castlegar and Slocan Park, and USW Local 1944, Unit 60, at Rogers Communications in Abbotsford.

The conversation highlights the unique struggles of small bargaining units of just 11 workers at the credit union and 25 technicians at Rogers. Both groups describe their employers’ attempts to roll back hard-won contract rights, stall wage growth, and divide workers.

Throughout the episode, the guests stress that these fights are not just about money, but about respect, dignity and fairness. From solidarity BBQs in the Kootenays to coordinated picket actions in the Lower Mainland, they show how “one day longer, one day stronger” is more than a slogan but a strategy for winning.

Listeners are encouraged to support the strikes at StellerVista Credit Union (USW Local 1-405) and Rogers Abbotsford (USW Local 1944, Unit 60).

Close the Rogers scab loophole to protect workers, communities and Bill C-58:
https://usw.ca/campaigns/close-the-loophole/

Support USW Local 1944, Unit 60 by donating:
https://checkout.square.site/merchant/9Q99DAFTXJ7Y4/checkout/KM5NLAC4ZWPQKBUYPSPUBLVT?src=webqr