Alberta Fact Check: No, displaying an Alberta flag to promote Alberta products is not a workplace rights violation

Subhead:Sobeys has stated that it is not supporting a political movement and the purpose of the displays is to promote Alberta-made products.#

 

UFCW Local 401 has filed a grievance alleging Sobeys “recklessly and inappropriately” used Alberta flags in its stores, arguing the displays have politicized the workplace and could harm workers. 

Opinion presented as a labour grievance, not a recognized violation of workers’ rights

UFCW Local 401 argues that Alberta flags used to identify Alberta-made products have become associated with the independence movement and therefore create a political workplace. The union has filed a grievance against Sobeys over the displays. 

However, there is no provision in Alberta’s labour or employment laws that makes exposure to a provincial flag in the workplace, by itself, a grievable violation of employee rights.

Author: D M

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