Diane Lauzon, Local 500

Maxi & Cie.
Montreal, Quebec

In 1969, Diane was hired at Steinberg’s. At the time she was a student and worked part-time. When she was offered a full-time position in the Produce Department she accepted without hesitation because of the good working conditions. She later worked in several departments: Customer Service, Meat, Bulk Foods and Bakery. She even held a non-union managerial position, but after 6 months she realized this type of work wasn’t for her. And then, 14 years ago, Diane decided to submit an application for a position that had just opened up in Receiving, a position traditionally held by men.

When the store manager informed the current receiving clerk that Diane had applied, he didn’t hesitate to support her. She was one of the first women in the retail food industry to perform these duties.

In the beginning, some of the delivery drivers, who were almost exclusively men, didn’t want to deal with her. When they saw Diane open the rear door of receiving for them they were taken aback and remained surprised. She had to learn everything about this position. She didn’t know how to work the fork-lift or the pallet truck. The first few times she had to load the trucks she came out sweating because she was so nervous.

Then the drivers came to know her and helped her with her work. About 5 years ago the store moved to the other side of the street and is now a larger Maxi & Cie. Sales have doubled, which keeps Diane busy.

Diane has been involved in the union for several years. About fifteen years ago the existing steward approached her to become assistant-steward and she accepted. When the steward quit, Diane replaced her. She decided to become involved because she doesn’t like injustice.

She finds that young workers are those that are the most often exploited. For her, it is important to inform them of their rights and make them aware of the importance of becoming involved. As she says so well, “The members ARE the union”.