Report by Lorinda Seward, inSolidarity Committee
As the Ontario Federation of Labour’s (OFL) 17th Biennial Convention came to a close, the echoes of unity and determination resonated through the convention floor at The Sheraton in downtown Toronto. Held from November 20 to 24, 2023, this five-day event brought together delegates from union affiliates from across the province of Ontario. The collective mission: to shape the future of the labour movement, fortify solidarity, and lay the groundwork for progressive change in Ontario. This convention carried the weight of a theme that resonates deeply with the struggles faced by workers in the province: “Enough is Enough!”.
(Note: inSolidarity did live coverage of the OFL Convention on Facebook – follow inSolidarity on Facebook here!)
The theme “Enough is Enough” echoes the sentiment of workers in the province of Ontario who have endured years of austerity, anti-labour legislation, and the erosion of workplace protections at the hands of the Doug Ford government. It’s a rallying cry against the oppressive policies of Ford’s conservative government that have disproportionately affected the working class. Under Ford’s leadership, Ontario has witnessed a systematic attack on workers’ rights, public services, and the social safety net. From cuts to education and healthcare to regressive labour laws, the Ford government has shown a blatant disregard for the well-being of the people it claims to represent.
Policy resolutions took centre stage as delegates dedicated meticulous attention to refining policies to be carried forward by the OFL. These policies serve as the blueprint for a more robust and inclusive labour movement, ensuring that the OFL remains agile and responsive to the evolving needs of its union affiliates. From political action to equity, racial justice, and real reconciliation, OFL delegates demonstrated an unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and fair working environment for all. The resolve to champion universal, accessible, and well-funded public services underscored the commitment to the well-being of all Ontarians.
A pivotal moment in the convention was approving the 2023 Action Plan – Enough is Enough: Workers Strike Back! Designed to forge stronger solidarity across the province of Ontario, the plan aims to rebuild the labour movement’s capacity to organize and mobilize, and positions itself strategically to confront challenges reminiscent of the infamous “Bill 28 moment.”
Keynote speakers played an instrumental role in inspiring and uniting the delegates. Terry Melvin, International President of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, brought a powerful message of solidarity and resilience. Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, spoke to the broader national context, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across provinces. Natalie Mehra, Executive Director of the Ontario Health Coalition, highlighted the intersectionality of labour and healthcare, stressing the need for a united front.
Wednesday, November 22, marked a day of action as delegates participated in a march and rally for National Housing Day. Hundreds of OFL affiliate union members joined forces with tenant strikers, housing advocates, and community allies to march through downtown Toronto. Their unified call for rent control and affordable housing echoed through the city, showcasing the labour movement’s commitment to social justice beyond workplace boundaries.
Amidst these moments of collective action and reflection, delegates bid a tearful farewell to outgoing OFL President Patty Coates, a trailblazer as the first female president of the OFL. Outgoing OFL Executive Vice-President Janice Folk-Dawson also received heartfelt recognition for her contributions. A warm welcome awaited the incoming “Team Ignite”: Laura Walton, the new OFL President; Jackie Taylor, the new OFL Executive Vice-President; and Ahmad Gaied, the returning OFL Secretary-Treasurer. Their arrival signals a new era of leadership, energy, and determination within the OFL.
As the convention concluded, it left a lasting impression of solidarity, resilience, and hope for the future. Delegates departed with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with constitutional amendments, resolutions, and an action plan that will undoubtedly shape the labour landscape in Ontario for years to come. The Ontario Federation of Labour’s 17th Biennial Convention was not just an event—it was a testament to the power of collective action and the unwavering spirit of the labour movement in the province of Ontario.
Photos by Lorinda Seward