Last week, from August 6 to 10, the New Brunswick Federation of Labour hosted its 18th annual Blair Doucet Youth Summer Camp (BDYSC) at the Moncton campus of l’Université de Moncton. It saw 14 campers come together from across the province: 6 boys and 8 girls.
“The youth tell us that they learn more about unions during their week of camp than anywhere else and look forward to attending this camp every year. Year after year they form lifelong bonds with other camp participants,” says Patrick Colford, New Brunswick Federation of Labour President at the closing ceremonies on Friday. “Blair Doucet’s vision of hosting a camp that includes both an educational component on the labour movement with fun activities lives on,” adds Colford.
In the mornings, camp participants learned about their rights as workers, the history of the labour movement and the role it plays in society, sweatshops and health and safety in the workplace. The afternoons were focussed on team-building exercises and fun activities.
“I want to say a special thank you to the camp counsellors who generously give their time and to the organizations who donate funds towards the costs of the camp. Without them, this camp would not be possible.” says George Leaman, at the camp’s closing ceremony, “I also wanted to thank the parents for sharing their sons and daughters with us this week. It’s an honor to have the opportunity to get to know these young adults who will make their mark in the world.”
Blair Doucet, NBFL President from 1999 to 2005, founded the camp. He believed that the union movement should be brought to the youth of the province. Doucet passed away in February 2009. The summer camp is named in his memory.
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George Leaman
Counselor who attended all 18 summer camps
NBFL Vice-President representing small unions
(506) 866-0113
Patrick Colford
NBFL President
857-2125 / 381-8969 (cell)