On December 7, 2020, with the health risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in mind, OPSEU/SEFPO’s Executive Board made the decision to postpone Convention 2021. The Convention Planning Committee has arranged to engage with all OPSEU/SEFPO members by distributing this leadership message which includes central and regional updates.
“We want to thank each and every member for their hard work and leadership during the past year,” said OPSEU/SEFPO President Warren (Smokey) Thomas. “OPSEU/SEFPO members keep Ontario running, especially during these difficult times.
“We look forward to meeting in-person again,” said Thomas. “But until it’s safe, we’ll continue to focus on fighting for safer workplaces, for paid sick days and a successful vaccine rollout, because we know it’s our best shot at overcoming this crisis.”
Or you can view our video by clicking this link: Leadership Message 2021
Video agenda
0:00 – Intro
0:10 – O Canada
1:38 – President Warren (Smokey) Thomas
18:47 – First Vice-President/Treasurer Eduardo Almeida
28:29 – Organizing during COVID-19
30:15 – Region 1 update
35:39 – Region 2 update
38:36 – Region 3 update
44:13 – Region 4 update
50:08 – Region 5 update
55:30 – Region 6 update
59:26 – Region 7 update
1:04:15 – Thank you to the front lines (English)
1:05:21 – Merci aux travailleurs de première ligne (français)
OPSEU/SEFPO Leadership History
We have had a long history of leaders who have enriched our union and helped it grow and flourish. Please find below posters of OPSEU/SEFPO Presidents and First Vice-Presidents throughout history to post in your locals.
The History of OPSEU/SEFPO Presidents
The History of OPSEU/SEFPO Vice-Presidents
Ontario needs a shot in the arm
During these difficult times, OPSEU/SEFPO remains committed to supporting front-line workers, and understands the importance of a successful vaccine rollout. The union recently launched an ad campaign encouraging all members – and Ontarians – to get vaccinated as soon as possible and to support the vaccination effort by talking to family and friends and encouraging them to do the same.
“The vaccine is absolutely our best shot at recovery,” said President Thomas. “We’ve been through these difficult times together, and the way out of this is together too.”
Show your support on social media
Share an image to your Facebook, Twitter and/or Instagram account
Facebook & Twitter
Sample message:
Ontario needs a shot in the arm because the way out of this is together – let’s all do our part and #GetVaccinated #COVID19 #VaccinesSaveLives @OPSEU @SEFPO
To view a printable PDF poster version, click here.
In Solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas
President, OPSEU/SEFPO