CBTU Award Dinner and Dance a Success!

(Français ci-dessous / French below)

Hello CBTU members and allies,

Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) – Canada is reaching out because we know you share our commitment to justice, equity, and historical truth.

On March 25, 2026, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution declaring the Trafficking of Enslaved Africans a crime against humanity. 123 voted in favour and 3 against. Canada abstained and has declined to issue an apology despite repeated House of Commons Petitions.
That abstention was a choice and it sent a message to the 1.5 million Black Canadians who live with the consequences of that history every day.In recognition of Emancipation Day on August 1^st, the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU)-Canada has launched a national campaign calling on the federal government to formally apologize for Canada's role in the trafficking and enslavement of Africans.

Here is how you can help right now:

1-   Email your MP using our template

2-    Share this campaign with your networks and members

The UN has declared this the Second Decade of People of African Descent. Canada must not sit on the sidelines of history—again.

In solidarity,

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists - Canada

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Bonjour, membres et alliés de la CBTU. 

La section canadienne de la Coalition des syndicalistes noirs (CBTU-Canada) vous demande de l’aider parce qu’elle sait que vous partagez son engagement à l’égard de la justice, de l’équité et de la vérité historique.

Le 25 mars 2026, l’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies a adopté une résolution déclarant que la traite des Africaines et Africains réduits en esclavage est un crime contre l’humanité. 123 pays ont voté en faveur et 3 ont voté contre. Le Canada s’est abstenu et a refusé de publier des excuses malgré les pétitions présentées à la Chambre des communes à maintes reprises à cette fin.

L’abstention du Canada était délibérée et transmettait un message aux 1,5 million de Canadiennes et Canadiens noirs vivant au quotidien avec les conséquences de cette page d’histoire.

Pour marquer le Jour de l’émancipation le 1^er août, CBTU-Canada a lancé une campagne nationale incitant le gouvernement fédéral à présenter des excuses officielles au sujet du rôle qu’a joué le Canada dans la traite et la réduction en esclavage d'Africaines et d’Africains.

Voici ce que vous pouvez faire dès maintenant pour l’aider :

1-   Envoyez un courriel à votre députée ou député fédéral à l’aide de notre modèle :

2-   Faites connaître cette campagne à vos réseaux et membres

L’ONU proclame la deuxième Décennie internationale des personnes d’ascendance africaine. Le Canada ne doit pas rester sur la touche de l’histoire—encore une fois.

En toute solidarité,

La section canadienne de la Coalition des syndicalistes noirs (CBTU-Canada)

CBTU Canada recognizes Juneteenth as a powerful milestone in the ongoing journey toward freedom, marking June 19, 1865, commemorates the arrival of Union troops in Galveston, Texas, who announced the Confederacy's defeat and enforced freedom for enslaved people in the state and the enforcement of the  Emancipation Proclamation

As we honour Juneteenth, we also recognize August 1st, Emancipation Day in Canada, a time to reflect on the legacy of slavery in our own history and the enduring strength, resistance, and contributions of Black communities.

The struggle for freedom, racial justice, and equity transcends borders. As educators, activists, and community leaders, we stand together in collective solidarity, committed to challenging anti-Black racism and building a future where justice, dignity, and opportunity are realized for all.

In solidarity,
CBTU Canada

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.