International Longshore & Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU Canada) and the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) stopped cargo operations at BC ports during the day shift today to join ILWU International in observing Juneteenth, a commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. The work stoppage was sanctioned by the ILWU and employers in west coast ports in the US and Canada. The BCMEA and ILWU Canada have also agreed to work together on a joint initiative to affect positive change on BC’s Waterfront and will formalize a plan to fight racism, promote equality and support the aspirations of both indigenous and racialized Canadians.