Dear Friends,
On behalf of the Public and Private Workers of Canada (PPWC), we want to express our profound sorrow and heartbreak at the horrendous and tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
Our union represents working people across this province and throughout Canada, and like so many others, we are struggling to come to terms with the devastating news. Incidents of violence like this shake the very foundation of our communities. Tumbler Ridge is a town built by working families—by people who look out for one another, who share in each other’s successes, and who stand together during difficult times. To see such a close-knit community impacted by an act of violence is deeply painful.
The PPWC extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected. No words can adequately capture the grief and anguish that follows a tragedy of this magnitude. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families and friends, and all those whose lives have been forever changed by this horrifying incident. We also recognize the trauma experienced by first responders, healthcare workers, and community members who were called upon to respond in the immediate aftermath. Their courage and dedication during such an unthinkable situation deserve our respect and gratitude.
As labour unionists, we believe in the power of solidarity. In moments like these, unity must extend beyond the workplace and into our communities. It means checking in on one another, offering support where we can, and ensuring that no one faces grief or fear alone. It means reaffirming our shared commitment to safe, caring, and inclusive communities where working people and their families can live without fear.
Violence has no place in our towns, our workplaces, or our society. While authorities continue their work and investigations proceed, we must focus on compassion, healing, and unity. Canadians have always shown resilience in times of crisis. We come together, we lift each other up, and we honour those impacted by committing ourselves to building a better, safer future.
For many in Tumbler Ridge and beyond, the days and weeks ahead will be difficult. The PPWC encourages anyone struggling in the wake of this tragedy to reach out—to family, to friends, to community supports, and to professional resources. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
On behalf of the Public and Private Workers of Canada, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and unwavering solidarity.
In Solidarity,
Geoff Dawe
President, Public and Private Workers of Canada (PPWC)
nationalpresident@ppwc.ca
Chuck LeBlanc
First Vice President, Public and Private Workers of Canada (PPWC)
vp1@ppwc.ca
