Project 6

Project Summary

We often think the labour market is self-directing and inevitable, when in reality it is a socially contrived (re)production, constantly in flux, that we continually reinforce or resist. In our increasingly automated world, and with the current pandemic and climate crises, it is important to consider ways to disrupt false economic assumptions and destructive labour practices. Further, COVID-19 has exposed longstanding inequalities by race, class, gender, physical ability, etc. in the Canadian labour market, presenting us with need and opportunity for change. In these unsettled and contentious times, how can we influence the direction of change in labour markets, labour movements, and local and global policy? More importantly, how can we close the gap and encourage collaboration between disparate sectors? How can we create a space for academic researchers, activists, and unions to openly share their resources and expertise while working together to conceptualize a post-COVID-19 "new normal" that shifts the focus from capitalist production and profit to people and sustainable livelihoods? Students interested in this project should become familiar with changes in the labour market during COVID-19 as well as the roles of various sectors, and might have backgrounds in human resources, the social sciences, social and economic policy, and business/economics. Team members must also have an interest in environmental sustainability, community engagement, just relationships, and human rights, and be capable of systems thinking and creative solutions.

Sustainable Development Goals

Additional Resources

Research Sightlines

COVID-19 Disruption, Denudation, and Dawning