Gary Steeves
Date: October 4, 2018
Interviewer: Ken Novakowski
Keywords: BCGEU; NDP; Tranquille; Operation Solidarity; Kamloops; Jack Adams; John Shields; Stanley Knowles; union organizing; Dave McPherson; worker control; BC Labour Heritage Centre
In this compelling oral history, former BCGEU Director Gary Steeves recalls his formative years, the occupation of Tranquille residential institution in Kamloops, and 25 years of his union’s remarkable evolution. Told in his charming ‘East Coaster’ style, Brother Steeves relates experiences in both political and union worlds. As a representative with a mere four months on the job, Gary facilitated the month-long Tranquille Occupation during 1983’s province-wide Solidarity protests. Step by step, he walks his audience through the process of ‘management by the workers’, and their devotion to the residents with physical and intellectual disabilities in their care.