Worth Fighting For
Good Morning Folks,
I am writing for your support in requesting fair compensation for developmental services workers following the repeal of Bill 124.
While other public-sector workers have received compensation or wage adjustments to address the impacts of Bill 124, developmental services workers have largely been excluded. This is particularly concerning given that the sector’s workforce is predominantly women, Black, and racialized workers who provide essential services to vulnerable individuals across Ontario.
Excluding this workforce from the same remedies provided to other sectors raises concerns about equity and fairness. Developmental services workers deserve the same recognition and compensation afforded to other affected public-sector employees.
We respectfully ask that the government take immediate steps to ensure developmental services workers receive equitable compensation following the repeal of Bill 124.
Please see information below from OPSEU’s Equity Representative on how you can assist in fighting for what is right! If you can’t make it out send family members and friends….There is strength in numbers as we are stronger together.
These workers are being Bold, Brave and Demanding Better for our communities needs!!
Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Sharon Stanley
Executive Secretary
London District Labour Council
United Way Board Member
OPSEU Member
As many of you already know, we have over 4000 OPSEU/SEFPO members across the province who are currently on strike or have been locked out.
After the repeal of Bill 124, many sectors received wage adjustments, while developmental services workers were excluded. This was not an accident. It was intentional. When the majority of these workers are Black, racialized and women, it tells you exactly what this Ford government thinks it can get away with. Workers have made it clear that this inequity is unacceptable, and they are fighting for the wages they deserve.
I’m asking for two actions.
1. Find a picket line and show up. Picket Finder – Worth Fighting For
2. Share this with your contacts and encourage others to show up.
I am encouraging each of you to make an effort to visit and support members on a picket line in your region. The longer these disputes continue, the more difficult things become for members and their families. Showing solidarity is about more than words. It is important that we physically show up and let workers know they are not standing alone. We know that many of these members face racism and discrimination in their workplaces and our union, and yes…some may even encounter it on the picket lines. Our presence sends a powerful message that Black and racialized workers are seen, valued, and supported. I cannot express enough how important it is for us to show up for one another, especially during moments like this.
This is one of those moments when our solidarity matters most. Whether you can spend an hour, an afternoon, or an entire shift on a picket line, your support will be appreciated.
Please share this with your contacts and encourage them to support our members.
I look forward to seeing you on a picket line.
If you’d like more info, please go to the OPSEU/SEFPO website.
Here is a video from CBC News about our workers on strike.
https://youtu.be/1tA5dJTVi1A?si=D7HaW6u6u3K9OlQf
In Solidarity,
Elizabeth Ha (She/Her)
OPSEU/SEFPO Equity Executive Board Member
Representing Racialized Workers
“There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor political, but because one’s conscience tells one that it’s right…” …Martin Luther King Jr.
