CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS
Ivan Dawns – The CBTU proudly congratulates Brother Ivan Dawns on being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal. This prestigious honour recognizes his outstanding activism, tireless leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of working people. Ivan’s continued dedication to community empowerment and social justice exemplifies the values that define our movement.
In addition to his many contributions to the labour movement, Ivan has been a dedicated advocate for men’s health through his work with The Walnut Foundation. His leadership in promoting prostate cancer awareness, especially encouraging Black men to get tested, has made a lasting difference in saving lives and breaking down barriers around men’s health conversations.
Ivan’s passion for justice, health equity, and mentorship continues to inspire us all. The CBTU celebrates his remarkable service and the example he sets for future generations of leaders.
Chris Campbell – We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Brother Chris Campbell on his retirement as President of the Carpenters Union Local 27.
Chris’s remarkable career spans decades of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy built on integrity, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to advancing workers’ rights and equity within the skilled trades.
Throughout his tenure, Chris has been a trailblazer in promoting diversity and inclusion, ensuring that the doors of opportunity remain open for Black workers and underrepresented communities across the construction industry. His steady leadership helped strengthen the voice of union members, foster collaboration among trades, and inspire the next generation of union leaders.
In addition to his retirement, Brother Campbell was awarded Jamaica’s National Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service, recognizing his outstanding contributions not only to the labour movement but also to the broader community. Over the years, he has been celebrated with numerous awards and recognitions for his advocacy, community building, and international solidarity work.
Chris’s influence extends far beyond the job site. His commitment to mentorship, justice, and empowerment has touched countless lives. The CBTU proudly honours Brother Campbell for his leadership, his lifelong dedication to the movement, and his enduring example of service to others.
CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP AND ACCOMPLISHMENT
Yolanda McClean, President of CBTU Canada and CBTU International Board member – The CBTU membership and Executive Board are so proud of your leadership, both here in CBTU Canada and internationally. We know the work is not easy, and we want to congratulate you on your election acclamation as Regional Vice-President for CUPE National.
Your appointment as Regional Vice-President is a powerful testament to her tireless advocacy and your role as a trailblazer for Black workers, women, and equity-deserving communities in Canada and beyond.
We are proud to celebrate this milestone with you and look forward to the continued strength and inspiration you bring to all you do.
The CBTU celebrates these remarkable individuals whose lifelong commitment continues to uplift our community and the cause of workers everywhere.
Statement from the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Canada: Regarding the Impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica
Friday, October 31, 2025
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Canada extends our deepest sympathy, solidarity, and support to the people of Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. We are holding close in our hearts all those who have suffered loss, displacement, and damage to their homes, communities, and essential services.
We especially acknowledge the emotional toll being felt by Jamaican families both on the island and here in Canada, as many continue to wait for information about the safety of loved ones due to widespread power outages and interruptions to telecommunications systems. To everyone living in uncertainty, we see you, we stand with you, and we are praying alongside you.
Even in the face of hardship, the Jamaican spirit remains resilient, courageous, and rooted in community care. And just as Jamaica has always lifted nations with its culture, leadership, and unwavering strength, we now rally to lift Jamaica.
CBTU Canada strongly encourages members across the country to support organizations and initiatives currently involved in recovery and rebuilding efforts. Donations can also be made directly to the Government of Jamaica’s Hurricane Melissa Relief Donation Fund.
In Unity 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
🎓 CBTU Scholarships –
Application Deadline Extended!
This is a reminder that CBTU Canada offers two important scholarship opportunities:
The deadline for both scholarships is normally the last Friday of October each year; however, due to rotating postal strikes, the deadline for 2025 has been extended until November 21, 2025.
As a contingency for this year, email applications will also be accepted.
Send your completed application to [email protected] with the subject line:
“CBTU SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION”
Please ensure that Andrea McCormack is copied on your submission at [email protected].
Please note: CBTU is not responsible for advising candidates of missing documents from their mailed or emailed application packages. Wishing all applicants success in their future endeavours, and thank you for carrying forward the spirit of excellence and leadership that CBTU represents. ✊🏽
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
