February is Black History month, a time to recognize the rich history of Black people in Canada and to celebrate their contributions in shaping our country.

Black union activists and leaders have shaped the labour movement in Canada in profound ways.

They have built unions and propelled our movement forward despite often being excluded from mainstream unions and from leadership positions due to systemic racism.

Honouring those who have shaped our movement

To celebrate Black History Month this year, CEIU would like to honour some of the prominent Black leaders – past and present – who have helped to lead us where we are today.

Over the month of February, CEIU will be sharing information about these prominent figures in Black labour history and the labour movement on our Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky accounts.

Addressing racism moving forward

We also want to acknowledge the contributions and struggles of the Black unionists today and in the past, including CEIU members.

There is still much to do to address the systems of racism and oppression that are embedded in our workplaces, our unions, and society. 

CEIU is developing an Anti-Racism Plan that will provide us with important tools and a plan of action to address the barriers that Black and racialized CEIU members face.

We cannot do this without the input of our members!

We need to hear from you about your experiences and your ideas for building an anti-racist union.

• Fill in our survey to share your insights and you could win a $100 gift card for a Black-owned Canadian business!