Canada’s unions are deeply alarmed by the U.S. administration’s threat to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian products. This is a direct attack on workers from both sides of the border, threatening good, unionized jobs in key sectors like manufacturing, mining, energy, and agriculture—jobs that form the backbone of our economy.

These tariffs would create a devastating ripple effect, impacting families and entire communities. The stakes are immense: escalating costs of living, stagnant wages, and now the Trump tariff threats, putting workers’ livelihoods at risk.

This is not just a trade issue; it is an economic and social emergency that requires an all-hands-on-deck approach when it comes to standing up for working people across Canada. It’s time for Canada’s political leadership to recognize the urgency and address this before it becomes a full-blown crisis.

The federal government must treat this threat with the urgency it demands. Workers need leadership that prioritizes their well-being, protects their jobs, and defends our industries. Capitulating to these tariff threats would be a betrayal of the millions of Canadians whose livelihoods are on the line.

Canada’s unions call on the government to reject these attacks outright, act decisively to safeguard jobs, and commit to developing a long-term industrial strategy that protects Canadian workers from the whims of any foreign administration.

Workers and unions across the country are united and ready to fight back.

Solidarity is our power, and we will not allow Canadian workers to become collateral damage in reckless trade disputes.

The Canadian Labour Congress urges the government to deliver a clear message: Canadian workers and industries will not be undermined. We will stand strong, act decisively, and unwaveringly defend our workers.

Students at École Airdrie Middle School in Airdrie, Alberta, recently had the opportunity to learn about the importance of unions from IAM Union International Representative Kevin Timms. During his lunchtime visit, Timms explained the essential role unions play in protecting the rights of workers, improving working conditions, and advocating for fair treatment in the workplace.

Timms took the time to share insights about the IAM, discussing how the union operates and how international representatives support workers both locally and globally. He also explained how someone becomes a unionist, what his favorite parts of his career are, and the challenges he has encountered along the way.

The session was not only informative but also inspiring, as Timms offered students a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to be a part of a union and the value of fighting for fair working conditions. His visit gave the students a deeper understanding of the labour movement and the vital work unions do to support workers’ rights.

Overall, it was a highly educational and engaging session that left students with a greater appreciation for unions and their role in the workplace.

The election results are in, and it is with great pride that we also congratulate the incumbent Executive Council members and international officers, who have been nominated and elected to a new four-year term, beginning July 1, 2025. For the first time in nearly two decades, there will be no need for runoffs in the international officer elections, a clear reflection of the strong unity and trust our members have shown in their leadership.

We are also excited to announce the re-election of David Chartrand for his second term as General Vice-President of IAM Canada, along with the election of Christy Slauenwhite as Canadian Labour Congress Delegate and Eric Johnston as a member of the Law Committee.

On behalf of all three of us, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for placing your trust and confidence in us. Without your support, none of this would have been possible. Every step of the way, it has been your commitment, dedication, and belief in our mission that has driven us forward, and for that, we are incredibly thankful.

Looking to the future, we are more determined than ever to work together towards our shared vision of bringing justice. Justice that is fair and accessible, now and always. With your continued partnership and support, we know that we can achieve this goal and create a brighter, more just tomorrow for all workers.

We understand the responsibility you have entrusted us with, and we want to assure you that your faith in us will never be misplaced. We will work tirelessly, with integrity and passion, to ensure that we meet and exceed the expectations you have placed on us. We are committed to the cause, to each of you, and to the values we hold dear. Together, we will continue to fight for what is right, and we will make sure your vote was not only heard, but acted upon.

You will not be disappointed. The road ahead may have its challenges, but we know that together, there is nothing we can’t accomplish.

Thank you once again for your trust, and we look forward to achieving great things together. The best is yet to come!

In solidarity always,

David Chartrand – GVP IAM Union Canada
Christy Slauenwhite – Canadian Labour Congress Delegate
Eric Johnston – Member of the law Committee

The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) Political Action Conference, held on January 20-21 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, brought together union members from across the country for two days of inspiration, collaboration, and political action. The event focused on uniting workers to fight for change and celebrate their collective strength ahead of the upcoming elections.

A diverse range of speakers set the tone, including Hon. Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto, who emphasized the importance of voting to drive change. Laura Walton, President of the Ontario Federation of Labour, reminded attendees that “workers save workers” and are vital to shaping the province’s future. CLC President Bea Bruske spoke about recent victories, such as the Canada Pension Plan increase, national childcare program, and anti-scab legislation, while stressing the potential for even greater gains in the upcoming election.

Hon. Matthew Green, MP for Hamilton Centre, and NDP Labour Critic, called out corporate greed and its devastating impact on workers, urging unity and action to combat it. Jagmeet Singh, Leader of the NDP, outlined his party’s pro-worker vision, promising to address the affordability crisis and prioritize workers’ rights under an NDP-led government.

In addition to the powerful speeches, the conference featured practical training sessions, helping participants to strengthen their political messaging and campaign strategies. Attendees learned how to push back against conservative talking points, reframe key issues, and communicate effectively to support workers’ rights. With a focus on strategic collaboration, the conference laid the groundwork for a united, strong campaign that aims to make a meaningful difference for workers across Canada.