The CBTU endorsed Marie Clarke Walker as a proud CBTU member and advocate for workers of colour. CBTU applauds Hassan Husseini, who was also endorsed by our Chapter, for having initiated a "Take Back The CLC" movement, which resulted in historic change following the election of Hassan Yussuff as the first racialized President of the CLC (who is also now a CBTU member).
- Larry Rousseau on winning a 2nd term as Regional Executive Vice-President, National Capital Region (NCR) of the Public Service Alliance of Canada following his acclamation today at the NCR Regional Convention. Brother Rousseau's involvement in the GLBT, anti-racist, peace and social activist movements will continue to be an integral part of his engagement and commitment for social justice.
- Pierre-Richard Joseph was elected as a National Officer of the Telecommunications Workers Union at their annual convention. Brother Joseph joins sister Miller, sister Watt, and brother Balan as an unprecedented 4th worker of colour on their national board, and making their Montreal headquarter the only known all-black executive office in the province of Quebec.
- Megan Whitfield was elected CUPW's first black female President elected of the largest CUPW local in Canada, while Abdi Yusuf was elected as the first black chief steward at their Gateway East Postal Facility, and Sharon Paris was re-elected as assistant secretary treasurer. Megan (below) was photographed chairing her first meeting as President.
The CBTU would like to congratulate all its members on their wonderful accomplishments. CBTU looks forward to working in solidarity with each of these newly elected Officers as well as all our other accomplished members to advance the ongoing struggle for racial equality. These are great strides sisters and brothers!
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.
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.
