By Lorinda Seward, Local 351, Editor inSolidarity
On the second day of Convention 2025, amidst the bustling energy of solidarity and activism, OPSEU/SEFPO’s annual Women’s Breakfast once again offered a space to honour and amplify the vital role of women in the labour movement. A cherished tradition, the breakfast brings together union activists from across the province to reflect, recharge, and recommit to the ongoing fight for equity and justice.
Addressing the attendees, OPSEU/SEFPO President JP Hornick spoke to the urgency of centering women’s issues in our union work, especially in the face of rising inequality and political hostility.
“The increased growth of the breakfast is a testament to the power of women in the union,” said Hornick. “We have legislation that is trying to be introduced to police the definition of women – as someone who identifies as gender diverse and as an historian, I have to say that every time government tries to police what it means to be a woman, it always follows with attacks on reproductive rights and attacks on women’s rights. How do you know you’re a woman? When Shania Twain sings ‘Let’s go girls,’ and you go—you’re a woman!”
First Vice-President/Treasurer Laurie Nancekivell reflected on how solidarity is rooted in care and connection, particularly in relation to women’s health and well-being.
“Women wear so many hats, taking on the caring role both at home and at work,” Nancekivell noted. “The more people with whom we share the responsibility, the more power union women have.” She also reminded those present of the broader context: “The provincial government has been starving public services for years. Many of these sectors are predominantly women workers. Make no mistake—these attacks are planned and are an attack on women.”
Dr. Crystal Garvey, Equity Board Member and representative on the Provincial Women’s Committee, highlighted the strength and intentionality of women in the union.
“What Bread and Roses means to women is that we are intentional about being trailblazers,” she said. “In order to continue this work, we need to support each other and lift each other up. I know that everyone in this room has inspired someone.”
Cris Rego, newly elected Equity Board Member representing the Indigenous Circle, reminded attendees of the importance of reconciliation.
“Reconciliation is about understanding the past to move forward,” Rego said. “To do that, we need to ask ourselves: What have I done, and what can I do to bridge this gap?”
Bread and Roses Award
One of the most anticipated parts of the event was the regional Bread and Roses awards, which honour outstanding women activists from each region for their commitment to equity and leadership within the union.
Regional Award Recipients:
Region 1: Jennifer Van Zetten, Local 162
Region 2: Melissa Matsos, Local 202
Region 3: Stacey Foster, Local 377
Region 4: Beverly Weaver, Local 4106
Region 5: Colleen Houlder, Local 524
Region 6: Michelle Oulton, Local 649
Region 7: Stefanie Bourelly, Local 710
✨ Bread and Roses Award Recipient:
Luisa Lampitoc, Local 580
Luisa’s dedication and passion for social justice, gender equity, and union activism have made her a role model and inspiration across the province. Her work exemplifies the spirit of Bread and Roses—a call not only for fair wages, but for dignity, beauty, and justice in our lives and workplaces.
As always, the Women’s Committee Breakfast was a moving and powerful reminder that women are not just part of the labour movement—they are at its core.