CHILD LABOUR AND STOLEN DREAMS

by Florence Marquez, UNITE Local 459, Winnipeg

Some children in the third world, are all out there
Struggling at work, so they can share
The fruits of their labour, with families they love and care
To live with dignity, even if they have to suffer
The dreams, they dreamt have been stolen
'Twas taken from them, when they started working
For companies and sweat shops, who do not care for them
But only for profits and personal gains
The children lost their childhood, along the way
The laughter we used to hear, when they are at play
The education they must obtain, as young adults today
So they can face the world with honour and dignity.
For mistakes they've made, they're punished severely
Leaving them under the sun, to burn for the whole day
They're young and helpless children, who need love and security
So let's protect them now, from abuses and slavery
Let's give them back their dreams, that was meant to be
Through training, education and the Union way
May they live their lives to the fullest today
With brighter future, good health and most of all they're free