After 6 years (20% of my ENTIRE LIFE) working as a bike messenger, I have now finished my final shift. Its been an amazing, life-changing experience. Ive travelled the world, Ive organized and raced a ton of alleycats (and won a whole bunch too), Ive cheated death while getting into the best shape of my life, and I helped found a union local and served as its president. While Ive been highly critical of the way the messenger industry exploits workers, I have never been motivated by anger or cynicism (though Ive certainly had those feelings at times). Ive always been motivated by love of the job, the community (both local and international), and the firm belief that couriers deserve better. I never thought that the struggle would be easily or quickly won, but it has been truly astonishing to see the way QMS management has fought tooth and nail, not just to defend their profit margins, but against the idea that they have any obligation whatsoever to actually give a shit about the very people who make their entire business possible. In retrospect, I should not have been surprised. The messenger industry is not unique, nor is it even remarkable in this respect. So, as this chapter of my life ends, and another begins, I am disillusioned but Im not bitter. More than anything I am grateful. Im grateful to have had so many amazing opportunities, adventures and challenges; to have raced with, partied with and been a part of the worldwide mess family. Im grateful to have survived in one piece, if not unscathed. Most of all Im grateful to everyone who made the Toronto Courier Local a reality, from the folks at CUPW to everyone who showed up to a meeting, signed a card, or showed their support by wearing one of our t-shirts or toques. Although the future of the local remains uncertain, its influence on my life has been profound. I was a directionless twenty-something with idealistic but vague political beliefs who has been transformed into an activist with direction, purpose, and perspective. Ultimately, Im grateful that this seemingly dead-end job has miraculously led me to a way out; in September I will begin graduate school in labour studies at McMaster, with full funding through a scholarship and a TA position. And finally, Im grateful to you, dear reader, for indulging me by reading this far :) Keep it rubber-side down!
Posted on: Thu, 31 Jul 2014 21:12:48 +0000
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