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 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

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.

Greetings, CBTU Family:
November 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of our organization becoming a Chapter of the CBTU, and the beginning of our year of celebration! Please take a moment to read our Special 30th Anniversary Edition Chapter Newsletter, where we have highlighted to accomplishments of several of our dear chapter members.
On behalf of the Chapter's Executive Board, we wish you all safe, happy, and healthy season's greetings and look forward to seeing and celebrating with you at our General Membership Meeting December 16 at 6pm.
Dear CBTU chapter members,
We are 30! This year marks 30 years of being a chapter of the International CBTU. To celebrate our history and the contributions of our members towards the Canadian Labour Movement, past and present, we invite you all to a special CBTU General Membership Meeting on Tuesday, December 16 in the evening. Location TBD and will be included in our newsletter coming out within a week. Yes, of course there will be food, it wouldn't be a proper celebration without it☺️
We look forward to seeing you there!