CBTU Membership letter

March 1st, 2026

Greetings, CBTU Family:

As Black History Month comes to a close, the work of celebrating, uplifting, and advancing Black history does not end for the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU). Black history is not confined to a single month; it lives in our communities, our workplaces, our struggles, and our victories every day of every year.

Over the past months, we have witnessed many inspiring moments across our movement. Black leaders have stepped forward to serve in new roles, some have retired after years of dedicated leadership, and others have begun new journeys that continue to shape our communities and labour movement. Each transition reflects the strength, resilience, and ongoing legacy of Black leadership within CBTU and beyond.

At the same time, our community has also experienced profound loss. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of CBTU Region One President Sharon Lovelady-Hall. Her leadership, commitment, and impact will be remembered and honoured throughout our organization.

We also send our heartfelt sympathies to all members of our CBTU family who have lost loved ones in recent weeks. Please know that you are not alone; our community stands with you.

The CBTU family remains rooted in solidarity and care. In moments of celebration and in times of grief, we continue to support one another. Together, we will keep building, organizing, and advancing the lives of Black people in our workplaces, our communities, and across the globe.

As we move forward, let us remain committed to the mission that unites us: empowerment, justice, and progress for Black workers everywhere.

CBTU EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

The CBTU Human Rights in Canada workshop was full, with founding Chapter President, June Veecock, receiving the first CBTU Human Rights in Canada Labour Education award from Chapter President Yolanda K. McClean. June recounted the origin story of the Chapter on our 30th anniversary to a standing ovation. An exciting start to Black History/African Liberation Month.

Over twenty-five workshop participants came together from as far as Ottawa to learn about the history of human rights, along with the elements and process of making a Human Rights complaint. Special thanks to Denise Hampden for facilitating an engaging workshop.

Matthew Green concluded the day by calling upon CBTU members to rise up, scale up and make our voices heard for our community in the face of rising hate: make Black Joy our prize. Recently elected and re-elected Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) officers Juanita Forde, Mark Brown, and Ahmad Gaied participated in the workshop to demonstrate the broader labour movement's support for the CBTU Education Department. Special thanks to Jenny Sellathurai for the beautiful photos of the event. This first workshop offering is the beginning, not the end, as we continue our march toward Our Beloved Community.

CELEBRATING YOUNG BLACK WOMEN IN POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION

CBTU Canada is proud to recognize and uplift young Black youth who are pursuing post-secondary education and building pathways of excellence, leadership, and service. Your dedication, resilience, and commitment to your goals inspire our movement and strengthen the future of our communities and our unions.

We are honoured to support the next generation of Black women leaders through our scholarship programs and to stand beside you as you continue your academic and professional journeys.

Congratulations to our recent scholarship recipients:

Sapphire Grant

Congratulations on receiving the Ann Newman Award from CBTU Canada. We thank you for applying for the scholarship and commend your hard work and determination. You have a bright future ahead, and we want you to know that the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists Canada is proud of you and is always here to support you.

Sienna Miller - Joseph

Congratulations on receiving both the Young Women’s Scholarship and the Ann Newman Professional Degree Scholarship from CBTU Canada. Your achievements reflect your dedication and promise, and we are honoured to support you through your educational journey. You have a bright future ahead, and CBTU Canada stands with you every step of the way.

To all young Black women pursuing post-secondary education: we see you, we

celebrate you, and we believe in you.

CBTU CANADA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

April 2nd, 2026

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm EST

Via Zoom

Please register for the Zoom meeting link.

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/8kRVP-GPSLuH4ak5OLml_w

This meeting is only for members

CBTU INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION

CBTU International Convention is rapidly approaching, and we want to ensure that everyone has the full details needed to participate.

The 55th International CBTU Convention will be held May 19–25, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, 265 Peachtree Street.

This year’s convention theme is: “Cherish Our Legacy and Bend to No One.”

For program updates, schedule details, and registration materials, please visit the CBTU Convention page on the CBTU website.

Canadian Registration Rate (At-Par Agreement)

Please note that the CBTU Canada Chapter has secured an agreement allowing Canadian members to register at par — $400.00 CAD — provided registration is completed before the early registration deadline of April 27, 2026.

To use the at-par registration option:

You must submit a mail-in registration form
Include a money order in Canadian funds

Mail to:

CBTU International Office
P.O. Box 66268
Washington, DC 20035-6268

The International Office must receive your registration form and payment by

April 27, 2026.

Please be aware:

Online registration payments are processed in USD and are not eligible for the at-par agreement.
Tickets for additional convention events (e.g., Women’s Lunch, Men’s Breakfast, Golf) are separate and priced in USD.

A copy of the mail-in registration form is attached for your convenience.

A hotel booking link is also available through the convention site. Rooms within the convention block are filling quickly, and accommodations outside the block are significantly more expensive, so early booking is strongly encouraged.

CBTU 2026 INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

The CBTU Scholarship Awards Committee will select ten (10) recipients, with each student receiving up to $2,000. Scholarship recipients will be announced at the Awards Banquet on May 24, 2026.

Application Deadline: April 17, 2026 (No extensions will be granted.)

Application Requirements Include:

A completed scholarship application form (all sections must be completed, initialled where indicated, and signed)
School transcript (and SAT/ACT scores for graduating high school students)
Three letters of recommendation (non-relatives)
Proof of college, university, or accredited trade school acceptance/enrollment
A CBTU sponsor who is a current dues-paying member
A typewritten essay (minimum 300 words) based on the topic for the student’s level of study

All application materials must be submitted by email to: [email protected]
Faxed submissions will not be accepted.

Please note that incomplete applications will automatically be disqualified.

We encourage our members to share this opportunity with students in their families and communities and help support the next generation of leaders.

CBTU 2026 MEMBERSHIP

The CBTU membership cycle runs from January 1 to December 31 each year.

To remain a member in good standing for the International CBTU Convention in May, membership dues must be paid no later than March 31, 2026.

Important Notice Regarding E-Transfers

If you have recently sent an e-transfer that requires a password, please contact us at [email protected] to confirm the spelling of the password. Some transfers have been returned due to incorrect or missing password information.

Please note that e-transfers are now set up for automatic deposit going forward, so passwords will no longer be required. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and appreciate your patience.

Membership Forms

Both the online membership form and a printable version are available on our website:

Become a Member – Coalition of Black Trade Unionists cbtu.ca

Please remember to complete a 2026 membership form, even if you are renewing your membership.

Thank you for continuing to support the work of CBTU as we advance equity, justice, and opportunity for Black workers in Canada and beyond.

BLACK MENTAL HEALTH

In Ontario, March 6 is recognized as Black Mental Health Day, a time to highlight the unique mental health experiences and challenges faced within Black communities. While this day raises important awareness, the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) recognizes that mental health awareness and support are needed every day of the year.

With the current global climate and the pressures many people are experiencing in their workplaces and communities, it is more important than ever that we support one another and ensure access to resources that promote wellness, resilience, and healing.

Mental health conversations help break stigma and remind us that seeking support is a sign of strength. CBTU encourages members to check in with one another, make use of available workplace and community resources, and continue building spaces where people feel safe to speak openly about their well-being.

Together, we can continue to raise awareness, support one another, and advocate for accessible mental health resources that strengthen our communities.

If you are experiencing mental health distress, please use resources, 211.ca, blackmentalhealth.ca, Employee assistance programs or reach out to members in your community. You are not Alone.

2026 UNITED NATIONS (UN) REGIONAL CONSULTATION - TORONTO

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) in Canada was invited to participate in the UN regional consultation on the Permanent Form on people of African descent. The objective of the form was to craft a draft UN declaration on the promotion, protection and full respect of the human rights of people of African descent. The goal is furthered by the work towards the development of a nationally recognized framework for international human rights standards and the construction of an African Canadian charter of rights. This work serves as a vital tool for repertory justice for people of African descent in Canada while contributing to the shape and construction of UN international law.

The participants consisted of Black civil society, trade unionists, policy makers, community leaders, and youth from across Canada. contributed by adding input under the framework of repertory justice in line with the ongoing CBTU campaign to obtain an apology for the enslavement of African Canadians. Whether the African immigrated to Canada voluntarily, arrived as a refugee or is a direct descendant of enslaved Africans in Canada. CBTU believes that the African’s humanity and contributions to Canada must be recognized. An apology for Canada’s role in the enslavement of Africans is required, and reparatory justice is a must.

From left to right. Chris Wilson CBTU International Board Member,

Jan Simpson CUPW National President and CBTU member along with

Mark Brown CBTU Executive Board Member.

The United Nations recognizes that People of African descent represent a distinct group whose human rights need to be protected everywhere.

AFFILIATE NEWS, EVENTS AND UPDATES

CBTU encourages all affiliates to share information about the events, initiatives, and community activities your organizations are involved in. This may include workshops, outreach programs, union activities, community partnerships, or other important work supporting Black workers and communities.

Please send your event details [email protected], brief descriptions, and photos for inclusion in future newsletters. Sharing these updates helps us celebrate the work of our affiliates and strengthen connections across the CBTU network.

Peace and Solidarity,

CBTU Canada Chapter Executive: President: Yolanda McClean, 1st Vice President Juanita Forde, 2nd Vice President Lineisha Bernard, Treasurer Christine Maclin, Recording Secretary Coleen Houlder, Communications Secretary Isabelle Miller, Communications & Social Media Officer Mark Brown, Membership Secretary Chris Campbell, Member At Large Mark Austin, Under 40 Representative Jordan Forde, Trustee Dennis Williams, Trustee Sharon Paris, Retiree Member Representative – Andrea McCormack

Latest posts

CBTU Canada - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

(Le français suit / French follows…)

To Allies,

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists - Canada (CBTU) community stands in solidarity with Indigenous Nations across Turtle Island. We honour the survivors of residential schools, remember the children who never returned home, and recognize the enduring strength, resilience, leadership, and sovereignty of Indigenous communities.

We also recognize that the history of Indigenous peoples and Nations has never been defined by the borders imposed through colonization. Long before the creation of Canada and the drawing of colonial boundaries, Indigenous Nations had their own territories, laws, governance, cultures, languages, and relationships with the land. These imposed borders are part of a colonial system that disrupted and continues to impact Indigenous peoples, communities, and Nations.

As displaced peoples of African descent, we acknowledge the generations of Indigenous peoples who have cared for and stewarded these lands for thousands of years. We recognize that reconciliation requires more than words—it demands truth, accountability, justice, and meaningful action.

The adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) by the UN General Assembly on September 13, 2007, affirmed the rights of Indigenous peoples and provides an important framework for advancing reconciliation. When the declaration was first adopted, Canada voted against UNDRIP. Canada changed their position over time through advocacy.

The Grassy Narrows River Run protest on September 23, 2026, reminds us that environmental justice and Indigenous rights remain urgent and ongoing concerns.

As we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, CBTU-Canada acknowledges that, a decade after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) released its 94 Calls to Action significant work remains to be done. Many of those calls are not yet fulfilled, underscoring the urgent need for governments, institutions, and the labour movement to move beyond words and take meaningful action.

We encourage our members and allies to learn, listen, and take action in support of Indigenous rights and justice. We also recognize the importance of resources such as the Canadian Labour Congress Indigenous Rights and Justice Resource Center in strengthening education and solidarity within the labour movement.

Truth must lead to justice. Reconciliation must lead to action.

In solidarity,

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) - Canada

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CBTU-Canada : Journée nationale de la vérité et de la réconciliation

À nos alliés,

Le 30 septembre, en cette Journée nationale de la vérité et de la réconciliation, la communauté de la Coalition des syndicalistes Noirs (CBTU) exprime sa solidarité avec les nations Autochtones de toute l’île de la Tortue. Nous rendons hommage aux survivants des pensionnats, nous nous souvenons des enfants qui ne sont jamais rentrés chez eux et nous reconnaissons la force, la résilience, le leadership et la souveraineté inébranlables des communautés Autochtones.

Nous reconnaissons également que les peuples et les nations Autochtones n’ont jamais été définis par les frontières imposées par la colonisation. Bien avant la création du Canada et le tracé des frontières coloniales, les nations Autochtones avaient leurs propres territoires, lois, modes de gouvernance, cultures, langues et liens avec la terre. Ces frontières imposées font partie d’un système colonial qui a bouleversé et continue d’avoir des répercussions sur les peuples, les communautés et les nations Autochtones.

En tant que peuples déplacés d’origine Africaine, nous rendons hommage aux générations de peuples Autochtones qui ont pris soin de ces terres et en ont assuré la gestion pendant des milliers d’années. Nous reconnaissons que la réconciliation exige plus que des mots : elle exige la vérité, la responsabilisation, la justice et des mesures concrètes.

L’adoption de la Déclaration des Nations Unies sur les droits des peuples Autochtones (UNDRIP) par l’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies le 13 septembre 2007 a affirmé les droits des peuples Autochtones et fournit un cadre important pour faire avancer la réconciliation. Lors de l’adoption de cette déclaration, le Canada a voté contre l’UNDRIP, puis ont revu leur position pour l'accepter.

La prochaine manifestation « Grassy Narrows River Run », prévue le 23 septembre 2026, nous rappelle que la justice environnementale et les droits des peuples Autochtones demeurent des enjeux urgents et persistants.

À l’occasion de la Journée nationale de la vérité et de la réconciliation, le CBTU-Canada reconnaît que, dix ans après la publication par la Commission de vérité et de réconciliation de ses 94 appels à l’action, un travail considérable reste à accomplir. Bon nombre de ces appels n’ont pas encore été mis en œuvre, ce qui souligne le besoin urgent pour les gouvernements, les institutions et le mouvement syndical d’aller au-delà des paroles et de prendre des mesures concrètes.

Nous encourageons nos membres et nos alliés à s’informer, à écouter et à agir en faveur des droits et de la justice Autochtones. Nous reconnaissons également l’importance de ressources telles que le Centre de ressources sur les droits et la justice autochtones pour renforcer l’éducation et la solidarité au sein du mouvement syndical.

La vérité doit mener à la justice. La réconciliation doit mener à l’action.

En solidarité,

La Coalition des syndicalistes Noirs (CBTU) – Canada

UNITED NATIONS (UN) INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT

August 31, 2026

Today, August 31, we join people around the world in recognizing the United Nations’ International Day for People of African Descent.

Today is a day to celebrate our history, resilience, achievements and contributions. But it is also a day to confront history honestly.

For the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) - Canada, recognition must be accompanied by truth, accountability and action.

Canada has a history connected to the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and the institution of slavery. That history must be acknowledged—not to assign guilt to Canadians today, but to recognize the truth of what happened and understand its continuing consequences.

That is why CBTU Canada launched its campaign calling on the Government of Canada to formally acknowledge Canada’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and issue a federal apology.

An apology cannot undo the past. But it can acknowledge the truth, honour those who suffered, and help establish a foundation for meaningful reconciliation and justice.

The United Nations has made clear that the legacy of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade demands recognition, justice and action.

Nations have a responsibility to ensure the full and equal treatment, dignity and protection of people of African descent in the societies and countries they have profoundly contributed to building and developing economically. This responsibility includes strengthening laws, policies and institutions to eliminate the racial discrimination, inequality and systemic barriers that continue to affect people of African descent, including in countries where they were brought through enslavement, forced migration or other forms of coercion. Recognition of these contributions must be accompanied by concrete measures to protect human rights, advance equality and address the enduring consequences of racial injustice.

Canada should not stand outside that conversation.

On this International Day for People of African Descent, CBTU Canada renews its call:

Canada must recognize its history.
Canada must acknowledge its responsibility.
Canada must apologize.

Remembering must lead to recognition.
Recognition must lead to accountability.
And accountability must lead to action.

CBTU Canada remains committed to the campaign for recognition, justice and an official federal apology.

In solidarity

The Executive Board of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) - Canada

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition — August 23

(Le français suit / French follows…)

August 23 is more than a date. It is a day to remember the courage, resistance and determination of those who challenged a system built on the trafficking and enslavement of Africans and their descendants.

The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition reminds us that history is not simply something to be remembered; it is something that continues to shape the societies we live in today. The legacy of slavery is reflected in the institutions, policies, inequalities and experiences that continue to affect Black communities.

Remembrance must therefore be accompanied by recognition, accountability and action. Honouring those who resisted slavery means confronting the historical realities that continue to influence the present and ensuring that future generations inherit a more just society.

This is why the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists–Canada continues to call on the Government of Canada to acknowledge its role in the trafficking and enslavement of Africans and to issue a formal federal apology. Our national apology campaign is part of a broader effort to advance recognition, accountability and reparatory justice.

On August 23rd, we remember those who endured. We honour those who resisted. And we recommit ourselves to the work of building a future grounded in justice, equality and dignity for all.

In remembrance. In recognition. In action.

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Canada Executive Board