May 1 is International Workers’ Day (May Day), a global day of recognition of the struggles and achievements of working people.

From fighting for better rights to demanding safer workplaces, the foundation of worker struggles throughout history has always been solidarity – sticking together and supporting each other, showing the strength and resilience of our organizations and communities.

This year, we cannot recognize this important day without also acknowledging how difficult this week has been. Of course, we are referring to the shocking incident that occurred at the Lapu-Lapu Festival in Vancouver on April 26, 2025.

We have heard so many news stories telling us about the victims of this incident: the eleven who were killed, those seriously injured, and those who witnessed the horror. We’ve heard of family members whose lives have been impacted forever.

The BC Government declared tomorrow (Friday, May 2, 2025) an official day of remembrance and mourning for the victims of the tragedy.

In our workplaces this week, we learned of fellow union members who lost family members or who witnessed the event themselves.

While we have all been extending our condolences, finding the right words has been difficult.

Taking care

These events are not easy to process, and people do that differently. Some may want to talk about it. Others may not.

If you need support, please take note of the community and employer-provided resources available to UFCW members on our website here: https://www.ufcw247.com/resources/

Some of the most relevant resources include:

• > Victim Services: 1-800-563-0808 or 211-victimlinkbc@uwbc.ca
• > Mental Health Line: 310-6789 (connects to a BC crisis line that offers a variety of support, including emotional support and referrals.
• > Employee Family Assistance Programs for employees of Loblaw, Sobeys, and other employers.

In the wake of the event, youth organizers from the Filipino community quickly organized a website with many relevant resources. For those who may need extra support, this is also an outstanding resource: https://vanfilemergency.my.canva.site/

Finding solidarity

As we process this tragedy, there has also been hope and inspiration in the community response.

We know UFCW Local 247 members in their workplaces are getting active in response to these events, like raising funds for those affected. Here are some examples:

• > Members at the Arbutus Safeway store have been collecting funds among their coworkers.
• > Members at Loblaw City Market downtown are planning a basketball tournament.
• > At one of the Loblaw Distribution Centres, a group of members is also working on raising money.

We are sure there are many more examples, and we would love to hear about them (email communications@ufcw247.com)

As an organization, our union has made donations to families of UFCW Local 247 members whose loved ones were lost or injured.

Aside from financial support, there are still other ways people can put their solidarity into action. For example:

• >An online book of condolence has been set up by the BC Government
• > Blood supplies are almost always low, and an incident such as this makes things even more strained. If able, please consider making an appointment to donate blood: https://www.blood.ca/en

The Lapu-Lapu Festival was meant to celebrate the strength and resilience of the Filipino community and the proud history of standing up against injustice and oppression. This past week has also demonstrated the strength and resilience of our communities and should inspire us all.