Russ Leech Interview: The People and Moments that Shaped BCGEU

Russ Leech is from a family of strong trade unionists. His parents organized the Machinists’ Fitters & Helpers Industrial Union local in Victoria during World War II. Given his family’s history, it’s not surprising that when Russ got a job in the Ministry of Forests he became an active trade unionist. This was during the time the BC Government Employees’ Association was about to transition to the BC Government Employees’ Union, now known as the BC General Employees’ Union.

In the interview Russ describes his leadership roles within his component (Component 11, Engineering, Technical and Inspectional) and on the BCGEU’s provincial executive over several decades.

Russ worked with many well-known provincial and component leaders in the BCGEU including Norm Richards, the union’s first president, John Fryer, general secretary when the union formed, longtime president John Shields, and his longtime friend Adam Ustik from his component. In the interview, Russ explains why he did not support John Shields as president and recounts the election when Ustik ran against Shields.

Russ shares memories of his involvement in union campaigns, events, and struggles such as the projectionists strike in Victoria and Operation Solidarity.

Russ is proud of the innovative contract language he developed around hours of work and other working conditions and his efforts to empower and support union stewards and members. He speaks fondly of the friendships, camaraderie, and excitement he experienced in his many years of union activism.

Overall, Russ gives an interesting first-hand account of the events and people that shaped the BCGEU during a pivotal period in its history.