Tag Archives: IAM

IAM Canada – IAM Opens the Floor to Queer Perspectives: A First with Fae Johnstone

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At this year’s IAM Union Staff Conference in beautiful Quebec City, a lot of firsts happened, but one moment stood out as truly groundbreaking.

For the first time in IAM history, the union invited a trans rights advocate to speak directly to leadership, staff, and members. That speaker was none other than Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of the Society of Queer Momentum, and her presence sparked one of the most talked-about and eye-opening sessions of the week.

Why did IAM make this move? Because it matters.

The union proudly represents a diverse membership, including many from the LGBTQIA2S+ community. As an international organization committed to solidarity, we knew it was time to go deeper: to listen, to learn, and to make sure we’re building a union culture that doesn’t just tolerate difference, but embraces it.

And Fae delivered.

In a bold, heartfelt, and deeply informative talk, she pulled back the curtain on what it means to be trans in today’s world and what real allyship looks like, especially within the labour movement. She didn’t sugarcoat the challenges. From misinformation to outright hostility, trans folks, particularly trans youth, are facing mounting pressure and harm.

But Fae’s message wasn’t one of despair. It was one of empowerment and education.

She spoke passionately about how her organization is working to protect future generations by advocating for inclusive education, public awareness, and policy change. “Being trans is a choice that deserves respect,” she told the room. “We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking to be seen, to be heard, to be respected and to be safe.”

Her words hit home.

As union members, we know what it means to fight for dignity, fairness, and a better future. Fae reminded us that those same values extend to our queer and trans siblings and that showing up for them means more than just words. It means learning, asking questions, and confronting our own blind spots.

She challenged us not to look down on what we don’t understand but to lean in. To embrace our differences, not fear them. To treat gender identity and expression not as political talking points, but as human realities worthy of compassion and respect.

For many in the room, it was an emotional experience. It sparked conversations, reflection, and, most importantly, a commitment to do better, for all members.

By the end of her session, the room wasn’t just applauding Fae Johnstone’s words, they were changed by them.

This was more than a speech. It was a moment.

A moment that showed IAM is ready to walk the talk when it comes to equity and inclusion.

IAM Canada – Building Canada’s Industrial Strategy: IAM Union at the Business Council of Canada

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On May 27, General Vice President (GVP) of the IAM Union in Canada, David Chartrand, joined national leaders at a closed-door session hosted by the Canadian Club of Toronto and the Business Council of Canada. This meeting brought together CEOs from major firms like Bombardier, ATCO, and Nokia, alongside government officials, union representatives and business representatives to discuss how to build a modern, sovereign industrial strategy for Canada.

With Canada preparing to boost defence spending and meet its NATO commitments, including a pledge to invest 2% of GDP in defence by 2030, the timing of the conversation couldn’t be more critical.

Speaking on behalf of labour, GVP Chartrand stressed that Canada’s defence base has been neglected for too long. “This isn’t just about national security,” he said. “It’s about economic opportunity, strategic independence, and good Canadian jobs.”

He called for urgent action to:

  • Strengthen Canada’s ability to defend itself without relying on foreign infrastructure
  • Invest in domestic manufacturing and workforce development
  • Source steel, aluminum, and critical components from within Canada
  • Rebuild supply chains to support long-term innovation and global competitiveness

During the meeting, the federal government was also urged to increase investment in Canada’s military capacity not just to reduce dependence on foreign allies, but to strengthen our own readiness and become a more capable, strategic partner on the world stage.

Canada is one of only four countries that can design and assemble a full aircraft. “We were once an industrial powerhouse, and there’s no reason we can’t be again. We’ve got the skilled labour and the institutional knowledge – we just need to activate it with the right strategy,” he added.

“To succeed, we’ll need a whole-of-nation approach. Our government cannot do it alone. Business cannot drive this in a vacuum. And, of course, workers must be part of the solution from day one,” Chartrand emphasized, highlighting the importance of collaboration in building a resilient industrial future.

The event highlighted a growing consensus: Canada must take bold steps to secure its place in a changing world and steps that will require vision, coordination, and a commitment to invest in the talent and capacity that already exists across the country.

One thing is clear if Canada wants to protect its sovereignty and economic future, the time to act is now.

TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT 140 – ATTENTION AIR CANADA TMOS – We saw the recent letter addressed to you by AMFA’s U.S. National President

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We find it strange that he was just now introducing himself mid-way through your representation vote.

This is AMFA’s latest attempt at a charm offensive – and just like a snake oil salesman, they’re telling you everything you want to hear, without mentioning what’s really at stake for you and your family.

Meanwhile, AMFA as a whole is missing in action throughout this entire process – sitting on the sidelines while asking you from afar to gamble away your futures.

All talk. Nothing to back it up.

Besides being riddled with falsehoods, what’s most telling is what AMFA’s American President doesn’t mention in his letter. He didn’t bother to address the issues that most affect your pocket book.

There’s a reason – the facts aren’t on their side.

  • AMFA didn’t mention your pension.
  • FACT: Switching to AMFA means Air Canada Tech Ops hired after 2012 will lose their pension.
  • AMFA didn’t mention outsourcing.
  • FACT: AMFA just negotiated a contract with WestJet that gives the carrier full authority to outsource jobs. AMFA has allowed thousands of tech op jobs to be outsourced at United, Northwest, and more.
  • AMFA didn’t mention the Share Trust.
  • FACT: The IAM Union exclusively holds more than $93 million in Air Canada stock that will be paid out ONLY to IAM Union members. For some members, the payment will be over $100,000.

As voting continues through this Saturday, May 31, please make your decision using the facts. Your livelihoods and your futures are at stake.

Let’s win better wages, benefits, and working conditions for all of our members in upcoming negotiations with Air Canada. Vote IAM Union.

In solidarity,

David Chartrand
IAM Canadian General Vice-President

Télécharger (PDF, 2.72MB)

TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT 140 – ATTENTION AIR CANADA TMOS – THIS VOTE IS CRITICAL FOR YOUR FUTURE!

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This is not only about representation. It is about your job, your security, and your retirement.

Our members are reaching out and telling us they are scared for their future. Worried about their jobs being outsourced, worried about AMFA’s ability to service, worried about losing critical years in their retirement savings planning without a real plan – just promises.

And their concerns go deeper.
Not one AMFA staff member has shown up.
Not at meetings.
Not even in the parking lot.
If they can’t show up now, when it matters most, when will they?

Our members are worried that their voices will not be heard as they are now the minority in a larger group.

Ensure you vote for a Union that delivers!
Ensure you vote for a Union that is present!
Ensure you vote for a Union that protects all workers!

VOTE FOR YOUR FUTURE. VOTE IAM!

Voting period ends Saturday May 31st, 2025

Télécharger (PDF, 2.7MB)

IAM Canada – One Union, No Borders: IAM’s 2025 Staff Conference Builds Power in Quebec City

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The IAM Union rolled into beautiful Quebec City this year for its 2025 Staff Conference; and wow, what a week it was!

From inspiring speakers to powerful conversations, this event brought together IAM leadership, staff, and representatives from both sides of the border in the name of unity, solidarity, and moving forward together.

The energy was strong right from the start. The Chief of Staff, Ralph Martin kicked things off, setting the tone for what turned out to be a powerful few days. Then the General Vice-President of the Canadian Territory, David Chartrand, took the mic to welcome everyone, touching on the big picture: how important it is to gather like this, especially in times where working people are facing serious challenges. His message was clear: solidarity as an International union is how we push through.

One of the most powerful moments? When the IAM Union’s Executive Council showed up from the U.S. in person to support their Canadian siblings in the labour movement. At a time when there’s so much noise trying to divide us, their presence was a reminder that true solidarity doesn’t stop at the border. The International President, Brian Bryant  highlighted that the IAM is, and always will be, an international union and that it’s always going to be here for workers, Canadian and American alike.

We also heard from General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, who gave us a peek at some exciting things the union has in the works. Lots of energy around the future and the projects that will keep IAM growing and evolving.

On the communications front, the IAM Communications Representatives, Vanessa Breidy, gave a great talk about why strong communication matters in our movement. They broke down how social media and rebranding are helping the union connect better with members, and the world.

There was also a great session on the Winpisinger Center (W3), presented by the Director of the W3, Mary McHugh, showing how education is a key piece of our power. From leadership training to building skills, W3 is all about equipping our people for the fight ahead.

Jennifer O’Bamaswin Director & Leader, First Nations and Inuit Relations Political Columnist, RDI, took the stage and brought a fresh and powerful perspective, speaking on Indigenous realities.

Chief of Staff, Ralph Martin, presented the IAM Union’s favourite charity, Guide Dogs of America and Tender Loving Canines came through. His presentation showed the amazing ways they’re helping people live fuller, more independent lives.

We had a session from the Communications Director, Jonathan Battaglia, who broke down how important global communication has become for the union, and how we keep our message strong, clear, and unified across countries and cultures.

Our Research Analyst, Roya Rismankar, presented crucial insights into the tariffs currently affecting workers, shedding light on the economic challenges many of our members are navigating.

We also heard from our Political Action International Representative, Derek Ferguson, who laid out the political landscape and the results of the recent Canadian elections and their impact on workers. The message was clear: political engagement isn’t optional. It’s essential.

Chief of Staff Ralph Martin also walked us through administrative procedures and essential forms. Important tools that keep the union organized and efficient behind the scenes.

One of the most talked-about and moving moments came when Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of the Society of Queer Momentum, took the stage. She spoke powerfully about what it means to be trans in today’s world, emphasizing resilience, inclusion, and the need for solidarity across all identities. Her voice brought urgency and inspiration to the table, reminding us that a truly united labour movement includes everyone.