Celebrating Black History Month

Celebrating Black History Month 

 

As we embark on the month of February, COPE Ontario proudly joins the nation in celebrating Black History Month—a time to recognize, honor, and amplify the extraordinary contributions of Black individuals throughout history. This year, we are especially focused on highlighting the invaluable impact Black leaders have made within the labour movement, shaping a more just and equitable society for all.

The labour movement has been a powerful force in championing workers' rights, and it is essential to acknowledge the pivotal role Black activists and workers have played in advancing these ideals. From the historic struggles for fair wages to the fight against discrimination in the workplace, Black individuals have been at the forefront, driving positive change within the labour movement.

This month, we reflect on the trailblazers who paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Canadian icons like Bromley Armstrong and Stanley G. Grizzle have left an indelible mark, inspiring generations to come and shaping the labour movement.

We encourage our members to take this opportunity to learn more about the rich history of Black contributions to the labour movement. Through education and understanding, we can work together to create an environment that fosters equality, justice, and unity within our ranks.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of solidarity, diversity, and inclusion. By standing together and recognizing the unique perspectives and talents each member brings to our collective effort, we strengthen our ability to create positive change and build a more equitable future for all.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to the labour movement. Together, we can continue to make strides towards a more just and inclusive society.

 

In solidarity,

                               

Patty Clancy - Director of COPE Ontario      Lorrie Vandersluis - President of COPE Ontario

And the COPE Ontario Team 

 

 

Latest posts

May 30 – The Fightback is On

 

Either we save our public medicare now, or we are going to lose it

Giant march & protest. Send a message to the Ford government & Ontario's Legislature that cannot be ignored.

In Toronto: Gather at 12 p.m. noon at the south side of Nathan Phillips Square across from the Sheraton, 123 Queen St. W. We will march to the Ontario Legislature at Queen’s Park which is in session — local Members of Provincial Parliament from across Ontario will be there.

There is a designated space at Queen’s Park for people with mobility issues who cannot join the march. Meet us at Queen’s Park in front of the Ontario Legislature. The march will arrive at Queen’s Park at 1 p.m.

Across Mid- & Southern Ontario: There will be buses/transportation to the Toronto protest. Look on the Ontario Health Coaltion website for details about buses and how to reserve a space or email [email protected].

In Northern Ontario (N. Ontario locations where it is too far to travel in to the Ontario Legislature):

Sault Ste. Marie: Gather at 12 p.m. noon at Roberta Bondar Pavilion for protest and march. Contact Al Dupuis at the Algoma Health Coalition [email protected].

Thunder Bay: Gather at 12 p.m. noon at mini Queen’s Park. Contact Jules Tupker [email protected].

Dryden: Rally outside of MPP Greg Rickford's office (429 Government Road) at 11:30 a.m. CDST

In Eastern Ontario

Ottawa: Gather at 12 p.m. noon at Faircrest Heights Park, 550 Smyth Road. Contact the Ottawa Health Coalition at [email protected]

Cornwall: Gather at 4 p.m. (note the time is different than elsewhere) outside MPP Nolan Quinn’s office, 120 Second St. W. Contact Louise Lanctot at [email protected] or Elaine MacDonald at [email protected].

COPE Fights for Homecare Workers

COPE joined other unions at Queen's Park to call on the Ford government to halt a plan that will cause further chaos in the home care sector – for both patients and workers. 

Bill 135 – rushed through the legislature with little oversight – demolishes existing governance structures and paves the way for privatization of vital health care services. 

The measure would dismantle the existing system of 14 Home Care and Community Support Services organizations across the province and turn them into one unwieldly structure. Unions have asked the government to consult with them on how to avoid the labour relations turmoil that will result. 

COPE Local 550 represents workers at Home Care and Community Support Services – Toronto. 

COPE Ontario Interim Director Glenn Wheeler (centre) joined OPSEU President JP Hornick, ONA President Erin Ariss, CUPE Ontario President Fred Hahn and NDP Health Critic France Gelinas at a media conference at Queen's Park.

 

 

 

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