On December 10, we mark Human Rights Day, a global reminder that fairness, dignity, and justice are not optional; they are fundamental rights. For the labour movement in Ontario, this day is more than a commemoration. It is a reaffirmation of who we are: workers standing together to defend human rights in every workplace, for every member, every day.
Unions were built on the belief that no worker should face discrimination, harassment, or inequity alone. Our power lies in collective action, and our responsibility is to ensure equity is woven through every local, every committee, and every decision we make.
Human Rights Are Union Rights
Human rights work is not separate from union work; it is union work. Whether we are negotiating contracts, filing grievances, organizing campaigns, or supporting members on the front lines, we are defending human rights in action.
In Ontario, workers continue to face:
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- Anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism
- Gender-based violence and harassment
- Barriers for workers with disabilities
- Homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination against 2SLGBTQIA+ members
- Immigration and precarious-status challenges
- Wage gaps and unequal access to opportunity
Unions play a crucial role in challenging these conditions. Our collective agreements, equity committees, stewards, and human rights representatives are often the first and sometimes only, line of defence for workers facing injustice.
Strengthening Equity Inside Our Locals
Human Rights Day is a reminder to look inward and assess how we operate as a movement. If we are to lead on human rights, our locals must be spaces where equity is more than a slogan. It must be an everyday practice.
This means:
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- Ensuring diverse representation in leadership and committees
- Embedding equity into bargaining proposals and caucus priorities
- Supporting members facing discrimination or harassment with strong, trauma-informed representation
- Investing in human rights, anti-racism, and equity training for stewards and officers
- Creating safe, accessible, barrier-free spaces for all members to participate
- Actively uplifting equity-seeking members and removing structural barriers to leadership
Equity doesn’t just happen; it requires deliberate and consistent action from each local and each leader.
A Commitment Beyond December 10
Human Rights Day is a powerful moment to reflect; but our commitment must extend far beyond one day. As a labour movement, we must continue to lead with equity, challenge injustice wherever it appears, and ensure every member’s dignity is protected.
This year, let’s recommit to building locals where:
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- Every member feels safe.
- Every voice is valued.
- Equity is a daily practice, not an annual acknowledgement.
- Human rights are defended with courage, compassion, and collective strength.
Our strength is our solidarity! When workers stand together, human rights move forward.