On Wednesday, February 11th, YRCAS workers came out to rally in the blowing snow: demanding the release of a workplace assessment report, amid continued concerns of harassment and bullying, workload pressures, and racism from management.
Joined by OPSEU/SEFPO leadership, representatives from the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL), OECTA York Catholic Teachers and the Toronto York Region Labour Council, the message was clear: workers need action – not more platitudes. The rally concluded with workers delivering letters to each member of the Board of Directors – letters that were signed by over 75% of members. The letter demanded transparency, the full release of the report, and immediate action to address issues in the workplace.
Just three hours after the rally concluded, workers were notified that the Chair of the Board at YRCAS had stepped down. The timing was no coincidence: for months, workers at YRCAS have been demanding transparency and accountability from a board that refused to listen. This week, that pressure delivered results. This win is a reminder that organized workers remain one of the most powerful forces for change in their workplace.
The board has stated the report will be released on February 19th. Workers are continuing to organize in the face of reprisal and will not stop until there is change – for workers and for the families and communities they serve.
Media Coverage:
York Region Children’s Aid Society workers rally for change – CTVNews
York Region CAS board chair resigns amid ongoing turmoil
