Application deadline: July 30, 2023
The Fred Upshaw Scholarship was created in honour of Fred Upshaw, OPSEU/SEFPO’s President from 1990-1995. Upshaw was the first Black President of a major Canadian union. This scholarship will be offered annually, to commemorate his tireless advocacy on behalf of working people and social justice for all.
Upshaw was a registered nurse at the Whitby Psychiatric Hospital and a member of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 331. He rose through the union ranks as a steward and eventually local president. In 1980, he was elected to the OPSEU/SEFPO Executive Board and served for several years, then elected as First-Vice President/Treasurer in 1984, prior to being elected President. A fervent human rights activist to the core, Upshaw championed employment equity during his time as President.
Who can apply:
The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to dependents of racialized OPSEU/SEFPO members in good standing who are pursuing studies in labour relations and/or social justice and human rights and are studying at a publicly-funded, publicly-run post-secondary institution in Ontario. The application deadline is July 30, 2023
How to apply:
The following submissions together with your completed application form must be received by OPSEU/SEFPO by email or mail on or before the application deadline (see application form for mailing and email addresses). Applications received after July 30, 2023, will not be considered.
- This application, completed fully
- 1,500 word essay responding to the following question. Your response may be a 1,500 word essay, or a photo series, short video, poem, audio file or visual art piece.
Why is worker activism and union involvement important to make meaningful health and safety improvements in the workplace?
- Summary of your recent community, union, or other volunteer work, which helps to build awareness of workplace, community or environmental health and safety.
EN Fred Upshaw Scholarship Application 2023-2024