APIRG Research Committee

Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), Edmonton Branch

Workers / Labour

To provide a historical perspective on the current labour situation in Canada; to educate workers about rank and file democracy and alternatives to the existing models of labour activism; to build a movement for workers’ control of industry.

We are currently a non-registered not-for-profit, but are looking into registering in the near future.

The On-To-Ottawa Trek: an examination of a Canadian workers’ struggle in the 1930s

A timeline of events and analysis of contributing factors that led to the Trek and its defeat.

Research Paper and PowerPoint Presentation

To present the details of the On-To-Ottawa Trek of 1935, its relevance to labour today to a broader audience: the labour community, the activist community, and the community at large. In doing so, we hope to educate the public about Canadian history and workers’ struggles, and inspire interest and activism surrounding labour issues today. We’re hoping to promote discussion on how this historic event shaped the labour movement in the late 20th century.

- 20-30 minutes presentation
- paper length negotiated with instructor

One of the biggest barriers facing progressives in the labour movement is a lack of practical solutions to problems in society. One of the ways to get around conventional trade unionism is to educate workers about past events that went beyond mere workplace bargaining and put forward not only an alternative approach to trade unionism, but an alternative to capitalism. Looking at Canadian labour history, especially in Alberta, is a very important way to expand the horizons of trade unionists in order to encourage not only a better labour movement but more involvement in the broader struggle for social justice.

Do the research and create and present a Powerpoint presentation on the On To Ottawa Trek of 1935, using primary sources. We would like the student to present at a dinner focused on the On To Ottawa Trek in June 2006; however, if the student is unable to do so, as the Winter Semester is over at the end of April, the Edmonton IWW would request that the Powerpoint be presented by one of our members at the June event. The student would present at a seminar before the faculty supervisor and community representatives for grading in late April.

- within one semester
- 3hrs/wk should be plenty of time, includes meeting with liaison

I would suggest setting aside 1 hour for a weekly meeting. This time would be set aside for questions, discussion, and guidance; it would not be mandatory to use all that time. I would also be available by email on a daily basis during the semester.

The liason will familiarize the student with databases and research techniques that would be useful in gathering information, and provide advice on other possible avenues of research. I would also provide instruction in the use of MS Powerpoint and presentation-giving tips. I would also discuss the goals and requirements of the project with APIRG and the faculty representative, and help communicate them to the student.

Any year of study, any faculty.

Good time management skills; experience or willingness to learn MS Powerpoint, and ability/willingness to communicate with an audience in a presentation environment.

Canadian history, labour.