How to elect pro-worker politicians: CLC launches inspiring playbook on the eve of two big elections
January 29, 2025
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh greets workers during the CLC's Workers Together conference in January
By Lorinda Seward, Local 351, Editor, inSolidarityWith the rallying cry “Workers Together,” the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) hosted its first Political Action Conference on January 20-21, 2025, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The conference brought union members, activists, and leaders from across the country together to strategize, share, and inspire action for a more equitable future.Representing my local, OPSEU/SEFPO Local 351, I had the privilege of attending this impactful event.The CLC’s central message was clear: workers deserve a better deal. In a time when many Canadians juggle multiple jobs yet struggle to make ends meet, when retirement feels out of reach despite a lifetime of hard work, and when essential goods like groceries and housing are becoming increasingly unaffordable, it is more urgent than ever to unite and demand change.The CLC’s sharp critique of corporate greed resonated with all attendees. As big corporations hike prices to boost profits, governments continue to vote against measures that could make life more affordable. The message of the conference was a powerful reminder that workers power Canada’s economy, and we deserve respect.
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh greets workers during the CLC’s Workers Together conference in January
2025|CLC President Bea Bruske speaks during the CLC’s Workers Together conference in January
2025|Saugeen Ojibway Nation Elder Dr. Duke Redbird addresses hundreds of workers during the CLC’s Workers Together conference in January
The conference introduced the Workers Together Playbook – a comprehensive toolkit designed to empower workers to engage in political action (https://workerstogether.ca/playbook).From canvassing to crafting impactful media narratives, the playbook provides practical steps for union members to influence elections and drive pro-worker policies. Participants were then invited to choose between two streams of workshops:
Making Our Campaign Strategy Your Campaign Strategy: This session focused on building and implementing winning strategies to elect pro-worker candidates.
Empowering Issue-Based Campaigners in Elections Campaigns: This workshop explored how to connect grassroots issue advocacy with broader political goals to drive meaningful change.
In addition to these hands-on workshops, the conference featured inspiring speeches from notable leaders. Among the speakers were Jagmeet Singh, leader of the Federal NDP; Bea Bruske, President of the CLC; Laura Walton, President of the Ontario Federation of Labour; and Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto. Each speaker emphasized the critical role of organized labour in holding governments and corporations accountable while championing solutions to Canada’s affordability crisis.
Into action
The conference wasn’t just about talk – it was about action. The energy in the room was palpable as participants discussed strategies to amplify pro-worker voices in government and to challenge policies that prioritize profits over people.
OPSEU/SEFPO’s participation in this conference underscores our commitment to advancing the rights and interests of our members.The insights and strategies shared at the event will undoubtedly strengthen our union’s efforts to advocate for fair wages, affordable housing, and robust public services.As we move forward, let’s remember that together, we are stronger. The CLC’s Political Action Conference is a reminder that solidarity is our most powerful tool in the fight for a fairer, more just Canada.
