The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists-Canada (CBTU) Stands in Solidarity with Auto Workers and Calls for Immediate Action to End Unjust Tariffs

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU)-Canada stands in solidarity with all Canadian workers affected by the 47th US President’s recent application of 25% tariffs on all automobiles and auto parts made in Canada.

The Canadian automotive industry plays a crucial role in the national economy, providing direct employment to over 545,000 workers. This includes more than 125,000 individuals in manufacturing—specifically vehicle assembly—and an additional 420,000 in aftermarket services and parts. These workers contribute to an industry that fuels economic growth, sustains families, and strengthens communities across Canada.

In addition to the automotive sector, other vital industries in Canada—such as lumber, steel, and emerging sectors—are also facing challenges due to global trade tensions.

This unwarranted and unsolicited trade war initiated by the 47th US president threatens to unravel an economic partnership between Canada and the US which is more than one hundred years old. This unjust attack is expected to negatively impact workers and their families on both sides of the Canada US border. For over a century the economic partnership between both countries has benefited workers and their families both north and south of the border. It remains the view of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists-Canada that the economies and subsequent job markets of both countries are stronger when the two countries work together.

At CBTU, we believe that the strength of both nations lies in cooperation, not division. Trade wars, such as the one initiated by the US, do not have winners. They only serve to harm workers, erode livelihoods, and create unnecessary instability for families. These Canadian sectors are not only an economic pillar for Canada but an integral part of the global supply chain that supports workers worldwide.

CBTU calls upon the governments of both Canada and the United States to work together and bring this dispute to a swift end. CBTU further calls upon the government of Canada to provide financial support to ALL Canadian workers negatively impacted by this unwarranted and unsolicited trade war of which Canada did not start.

Coalition of Black Trade Unionists-Canada (CBTU) continues to stand in solidarity with all workers across these sectors, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation to maintain fair trade practices that benefit both Canada and the U.S. without undermining the livelihoods of workers. Ensuring these industries remain competitive and resilient is essential for a stable, prosperous future for workers on both sides of the border.

The global consequences of these tariffs will not only hurt Canadian workers but will also ripple through supply chains across the globe. It is more critical than ever that we stand united—across borders and industries—to protect the livelihoods of working people everywhere. It remains CBTU’s position that the two economies are the strongest when they work together as there are no winners in a trade war.

Together, we are stronger. No one wins in a trade war.

In solidarity

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists-Canada Executive Board

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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