Ontario is in the grips of a healthcare crisis – and Indigenous peoples in Toronto continue to face poorer health conditions in mainstream healthcare and systemic discrimination. Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) is the only place where the under-served Indigenous community in Toronto can access culturally affirming care with staff who can meet their diverse needs.
While the unique services provided at AHT are often lauded, the workers who provide those services are calling for fair pay, pension a pension to retire with dignity and improved worker wellbeing.
The workers at AHT, who are members of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 5115, are urging executive leadership and the board to come to the table and negotiate a fair first contract. For over a year, these workers have been seeking their first contract. It’s time to make a deal.
Take action! Send an email to Anishnawbe Health Toronto’s Board President Marian Jacko and executive board members:
Here’s the text of the email that will be sent on your behalf:
I am deeply concerned that, despite providing culturally beneficial healthcare and mental health services to the under-served Indigenous community in Toronto, the workers at Anishnawbe Health Toronto have yet to secure a first contract that includes fair pay, a pension to retire with dignity and improved worker well-being.
Despite Ontario’s ongoing healthcare crisis, Indigenous peoples are welcomed into AHT by the incredible staff who provide affirming and lifesaving care. These workers deserve fairness and respect.
By negotiating a fair deal with proper compensation, you will improve AHT’s ability to recruit and retain healthcare workers dedicated to providing the best care possible to the Indigenous community of Toronto. This would help to reduce ongoing gaps in service.
AHT workers are ready to come to the table to negotiate a fair deal that’s good for workers and the clients they support.
As an executive member of the governing body for Anishnawbe Health Toronto, I urge you to act immediately to ensure a fair first contract as quickly as possible.
Sincerely,
[your name]