District 6 News
Local 2020 members locked out, rally in Sudbury, Ontario
Nearly two dozen workers, all members of USW Local 2020, took to the streets on June 3 to picket their employer, CarePartners, after being locked out on May 31.
Steelworkers’ Settlement at Long-Term Care Facility Improves Conditions, Wages and Benefits
“Our members are experiencing more and more stress as they deal with changing workloads, increased patient acuity and government austerity.” - Marty Warren
USW Looks to Consult, Contribute to Solutions
Ken Neumann Statement on the MMIWG National Inquiry Final Report
New Training Brings Awareness on How to Address Mental Health Challenges
Members at Scapa Tapes in Renfrew, Ontario recently participated in a mental health training session offered and negotiated by the union.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $58,950 to Support Disaster Recovery Here and Abroad
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund has contributed $58,950 to support victims of natural and human-made disasters that have deeply impacted communities across the globe in 2019.
Ken Neumann’s statement on the occasion of June 21, National Indigenous Day
We’re watching the Senate and the federal government to see if they will pass Bill C-262 into law, so that Canada can adopt and implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Community Rally to Support Brunswick Smelter Workers
“This rally sends a message to Glencore that they should return to the bargaining table and negotiate a settlement.”
Marty Warren Statement for Pride Month
June is the month to celebrate these milestones and recognize the victories of the past. It is also a month to contemplate the struggles that are still ahead. We need to continue to fight the stigma that often affects members of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
Ken Neumann Statement for Pride Month
In June this year, Steelworkers from all across Canada join with LGBT communities to celebrate Pride Month.
Sudbury Home Care Workers Locked Out by CarePartners
"This company wants to extract more profit from public funds by putting the squeeze on a small group of women who want decent wages and working conditions.”
NDP Climate Plan Protects our Planet and our Jobs – Steelworkers
The NDP climate plan is the most comprehensive environmental platform of any of the parties. It is worker-oriented and jobs-centred. Our members want to be involved in the decision-making, and this plan specifically mentions working with labour.
Community Rally to Support USW Local 7085 in Belldune, N.B.
Glencore Must Back Up Its Goodwill Pledge to Locked-Out Workers
“Glencore’s New Brunswick employees should have the same rights, protections and working conditions as its other Canadian workers.”
USW District 6 Health Care Activists Mobilize in Canada and Prepare for More Action
The District 6 Health Care Council convened in Ottawa last week for their bi-annual meeting and to rally in the streets in support of improving conditions for the nation’s thousands of health care workers.
United Steelworkers Welcomes Tariffs Deal, Urges Strong Measures to Protect Canadian Steel
“Our union pushed hard for these tariffs to be lifted. Now we need strong measures to stabilize our market and defend our steel sector from predatory foreign trade practices." - Ken Neumann
Steelworkers Disappointed with Vale as Voisey’s Bay Talks Break Off
"Vale's approach to date undermines the goal of achieving a settlement without conflict."
CLC/UWCC Post-Secondary Scholarship
The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) Young Workers Program and United Way Centraide Canada (UWCC) are pleased to present the annual CLC/UWCC Post-Secondary Scholarship.
Join the International Campaign for a New Social Contract for Working People
It’s time to make the economy work for everybody. Sign ITUC’s petition for a New Social Contract to ensure a fairer deal that puts people, not corporate greed, back in the driver’s seat.
Remembering Westray
In the early morning of May 9, 1992, an explosion ripped through the Westray coal mine in Plymouth, Nova Scotia, killing all twenty-six miners working the night shift.
The struggle for an ombudsperson “with teeth” continues in streets of Toronto
Along with other prominent Canadian human rights organizations, the United Steelworkers union calls on the federal government to appoint an ombudsperson with real power to investigate corporate abuses abroad.
CFLPA and United Steelworkers Announce Strategic Alliance
The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) and the United Steelworkers (USW) today announced a ‘strategic alliance’ that will build a closer unity of purpose between the two associations.
Locked-Out Canadian Steelworkers Travel to Glencore AGM in Switzerland to Denounce Attacks on Rights
USW and global labour federation IndustriALL call on Glencore to end the lockout at Brunswick Smelter and resume negotiations.
Labour a Key Partner in a Canadian Green New Deal
The Broadbent Institute's Rick Smith and USW National Director Ken Neumann write in The Toronto Star about putting the concerns of labour and environmental groups to work in a mutually reinforcing way in a Canadian Green New Deal.
Grand Solidarity March for ABI workers!
On May 25, D6 Steelworkers are making the trip to Trois-Rivières, Québec to bring solidarity from our district to the locked-out members at ABI. These 1,030 workers have been locked-out of their jobs at the smelter for 15-months!
Steelworkers on Parliament Hill to Put “Retirees First”
Steelworkers from across Canada are lobbying for a commitment to put protection for retired workers on the election platform of every political party.
Marty Warren Statement on Asian Heritage Month 2019
In May 2002, the Government of Canada signed an official declaration to designate May as Asian Heritage Month. Along with Districts 3 and 5, District 6 celebrates Asian History Month with all Steelworkers
Glencore Smelter Lockout Culminates Years of Anti-Labour Hostility
Glencore locks out Brunswick Smelter employees in attempt to weaken health and safety and union representation.
The United Steelworkers Dismisses Government Announcement and Renews Calls for Independent Ombudsperson
USW reacts angrily to appointment of a special advisor, without the powers of an effective ombudsperson, to address long-standing human rights concerns related to Canadian corporate behaviour overseas.
Neo-Liberals Are Not the Answer to Growing Populism
This data shows what we all know: Canadians are increasingly worried about their financial situation. However, we should not be framing this as an “affordability crisis.” The real frame is growing inequality and wage stagnation.
Government Fails to Deliver on Universal Pharmacare, Retiree Bankruptcy Protection and More
The Liberal government’s budget has failed Canadians by not committing to a single-payer pharmacare plan that is universal, public, accessible, comprehensive and portable as they promised, says USW National Director Ken Neumann.
Enough Concessions, Steelworkers Tell Glencore
“It’s time for Glencore to recognize the sacrifices its workers have made and the fact that their hard work is the key to the company’s success.”
ADVISORY: Steelworkers Host Community Celebration of Hamilton’s Diversity
The Hamilton Steelworkers Area Council invites all residents to a celebration of our city’s diversity on Sunday, March 17, in commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
USW Works to Safeguard Canadian Steel Jobs
USW is part of a coordinated industry effort to preserve good Canadian jobs in the steel sector, calling on the federal government to keep current steel industry safeguards in place.
Former Rubber Workers Urged to Attend Occupational Disease Information Sessions
“We are committed to ensuring these workers and their surviving family members receive the justice and dignity they deserve.” - Marty Warren
Marty Warren's Statement for International Women's Day 2019
On March 8th we celebrate International Women’s Day. It’s a day to remember our accomplishments, where we were and what struggles we continue to have.
Jagmeet Singh Byelection Win Signals Momentum for NDP – Steelworkers
Jagmeet Singh’s decisive byelection win is a significant victory for the NDP, signalling much-needed momentum for the party and its leader.
University Staff Approve New Innovative, Secure Pension Plan – Steelworkers
Staff at the University of Toronto, University of Guelph and Queen’s University, members of United Steelworkers (USW) local unions, have voted in favour of a multi-university pension plan (UPP).
United Steelworkers Ratify New CN Agreement
Contract improves wages, benefits and travel allowances for3,000 USW members who inspect, maintain and repair CN’s Canada-wide infrastructure.
Health Care Activists Advocate Universal Pharmacare on Parliament Hill
More than 100 public health care advocates, including members of the United Steelworkers, visited MPs on Parliament Hill last week to push for universal public pharmacare.
Marty Warren Statement on Black History Month
As District 6 represents one of the most diverse Districts in Canada, it is important that we celebrate Black History Month each February.
SOAR leadership changes in District 6
Two recent organizational changes
USW Cares: USW Local 1998 Women of Steel's Holiday Drive Update
More than 50 volunteers hosted collection boxes and used their lunch hours to drop off donations, sort through and package donations into bags, delivered donations and encouraged their colleagues to get involved.
United Steelworkers and CN Reach Tentative Agreement
CN and United Steelworkers Local 2004 announced today that a new tentative collective agreement has been reached between the company and union.
United Steelworkers Establishes a Community Fund for Former Members
WABUSH, NL, 19 December 2018 – The United Steelworkers union (USW) has established a Community Fund that will provide Other Post Employment Benefit’s for the current retirees of the union at the Scully Mine.
IMP Aerostructures Workers Vote to Strongly Reject Inadequate Company Offer
USW members at IMP Aerostructures have overwhelmingly rejected the latest inadequate offer from the employer which called for dramatic cuts for senior workers.
Joint Statement Calling on Canada to End Sterilization without Consent
The United Steelworkers is one of 72 organizations to endorse a joint statement calling for government action to #DefendConsent and end #ForcedSterilization of Indigenous women in Canada.
Marty Warren Statement for International Human Rights Day, December 10th, 2018.
Each year on December 10th, the United Steelworkers observe International Human Rights Day. The day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations.
USW Cares: Giving Back to Those Who Built Our Community
Marty Warren's Statement for December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
In the labour movement, we have a saying: “Mourn, then organize.” This saying is very relevant as we mark December 6, the day to remember the women murdered at Montreal’s École Polytechnique and all women lost to violence.
News@6 Fall 2018
Check out the latest edition of News@6, our newsletter for Steelworkers in Ontario and Atlantic Canada from District 6 Director Marty Warren.
GM Workers Need Real Action to Defend Their Jobs
“Everything about this callous decision is unacceptable. It requires a powerful response from the federal and provincial governments to support these families.” - Ken Neumann
Marty Warren Statement for November 20, Transgender Day of Remembrance
November 20 is the day the world recognizes as Transgender Day of Remembrance.
Recalling the Horror Part of Making Improvements
Twenty-six years after telling his story of post-traumatic stress on every anniversary of the disaster, Vern Theriault has written it all down in “Westray, My Journey from Darkness to Light”.
Concession Bargaining
From NAFTA to TPP to CETA, Liberals’ trade deals make things worse for Canadians.
USW Cares: USW Local 1998 Women of Steel Holiday Drive
USW Local 1998's Women of Steel holiday drive.
USW Cares: Baskets of Solidarity
Read about USW Local 8782's special #USWCares initiative.
Support Bécancour Steelworkers Locked Out by ABI
Show your solidarity with a donation to the locked-out workers of Local 9700 in Bécancour.
Remove Steel Tariffs Before Signing New Trade Deal: Mark Rowlinson on Power & Politics
The USW says Canada should not sign the USMCA until the U.S. has removed tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum.
Steelworkers Join Emergency Actions To Defend Workers’ Rights
United Steelworkers across Ontario are joining community and labour actions condemning the Doug Ford government’s legislation cancelling the $15 minimum wage increase and rolling back basic labour rights.
I Am With You, Sisters!
“I have had the privilege to be here over the last several days and hear the women of our great union – on both sides of the border – set out your plans and your ideas for how you will continue the struggle for women’s equality."
Answering the Call to Action Through Global Solidarity
Tapping the Power of Authenticity: delegates to the International Women of Steel Conference were inspired by the experiences of women activists and union leaders from around the world.
The Women Speak
We’re the women of the union in the forefront of the fight, we fight for women’s issues; we fight for women’s rights. We’re prepared to fight for freedom; we’re prepared to stand our ground, women make the union strong!
USW President Gerard Calls for Movement, Not Musing at WOS Conference
USW International President Leo Gerard took the mic for the keynote speech on the second morning of the International Women of Steel Conference .
Women of Steel Take to the Streets for Ontario’s $15 Minimum Wage
More than 1,000 Women of Steel converged on University Avenue in downtown Toronto for the Ontario Day of Action for Workers’ Rights.
2018 International Women's Conference Delegate Bios - Districts 1 to 6
We asked some of our most stellar sisters who are attending the 2018 International Women's Conference in Toronto, Ontario, some questions about being an activist and more. Check out some of their bios below.
More than 1,200 Women of Steel Answer the Call
The 2018 USW Women of Steel (WOS) Conference in Toronto, Ontario, was called to order on Monday, October 15.
Rally to Protect Ontario Labour Rights
Steelworkers will be joined by hundreds of members of unions across Toronto for a ‘Hands Off Decent Work Laws’ rally on Oct. 15 at the Ministry of Labour offices in Toronto.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $10,000 to Aid Survivors of Indonesian Tsunami
“This catastrophe left nearly 200,000 people in urgent need of assistance, about a quarter of them children. We felt compelled to demonstrate the Steelworkers' solidarity in the face of a catastrophe of such magnitude."
Introducing USW District 6's Trans Liaison
USW District 6, in conjunction with the USW District 6 Human Rights Committee are proud to introduce our first District 6 Transgender liaison. Reach out to Mayson if you are a Steelworker looking for support or information on transgender issues.
Marty Warren Statement for October 4, National Day to Commemorate Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
October 4 is the day Canadians attend vigils and other events honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
Battle to Defend Steel and Aluminum Continues
For years, Steelworkers on both sides of the U.S. border have decried and battled the harmful and unfair dumping of steel and aluminum by countries, including China, South Korea and Turkey.
USW Cares: Grandfather and Granddaughter Duo Fighting Cancer Together
USW Welcomes the Return of Napoleón Gómez to Mexico
USW welcomes the return to Mexico of Napoleón Gómez Urrutia, the President and General Secretary of Los Mineros after more than 12 years of exile.
A New World of Possibilities for Workers: Napoleon Gomez Becomes A Senator in Mexico
Leo Gerard honours labour hero – Los Mineros leader Napoleon Gomez – on his swearing in as a Senator of the Mexican Republic.
Federal Steel Measures a Needed Step: Steelworkers
The USW welcomes the federal government's announcement that it is commencing consultations on the steel safeguards and protection measures our union has been requesting for months,
Woman Trade Unionist Succeeds in Male-Dominated Profession
Read how Charlene Clarke from local 13173 in Ontario, Canada got active in her local of almost 200 members.
Steelworkers Welcome Criminal Charges in Sudbury Worker’s Death
Company and owner face charges of criminal negligence causing the death of worker Rheal Dionne.
Canada’s Uranium Industry No Threat to U.S.: Steelworkers
U.S. uranium producers have basically made the case already, that Canada is not the problem.
Steelworkers Win First Contract Victory at Power Precast Solutions
New contract guarantees significant wage increases, benefits, seniority and improved hours of work.
Steelworkers Call on New Ontario Government to “Stop the Killing and Enforce the Law” – Now
“It is far too late for excuses. We are calling on the Ontario government to step up and enforce the law – for the people.” - Marty Warren
Trump Tariffs Could Tip Canada into Recession, Trade Committee Told
"If you don't poke the bear, he's going to eat your lunch," USW National Director Ken Neumann told the House of Commons committee on international trade.
Story of the Sears Bankruptcy
Watch this Radio-Canada documentary on the Sears bankruptcy, featuring an interview with Steelworker and NDP MP Scott Duvall on the legalized theft of workers' hard-earned pensions in corporate bankruptcies.
Marty Warren statement on the occasion of June 21, National Aboriginal Day
As we celebrate National Aboriginal Day this year, take a moment away from the festivities to email or phone your Member of Parliament.
Marty Warren Pride 2018 Statement
In June this year, Steelworkers from all across Canada join with LGBTQ2S+ communities to celebrate Pride Month.
Ontario Steelworkers Endorse Andrea Horwath and the NDP
“Andrea Horwath and her team of NDP candidates are the best choice for workers in this June 7 election.” - Marty Warren
Unjustified U.S. Tariffs on Canadian Steel, Aluminum Will Harm Jobs, Economy in Both Countries
“Imposing tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum risks harming the U.S. and Canadian economies and threatens thousands of jobs in both countries.” - Ken Neumann
Labrador Steelworkers Ratify 5-Year Contract with IOC
New collective agreements include increases in medical benefit coverage, wages and pensions, as well as other improvements.
KL Gold’s Hostile Tactics Thwart Workers’ Bid to Join Union
“Labour laws in Ontario and the enforcement of those laws are inadequate to prevent employers from interfering in the fundamental rights of workers to organize a union.” - Marty Warren
Cliffs Pensioners, Former Workers Recover 60% of Pension Shortfall
“Our union fought relentlessly alongside former workers and pensioners and this struggle has finally paid off.” - Marty Warren
Steelworkers’ Solidarity Produces Tentative Agreements at Algoma
The Steelworkers union and our members in Sault Ste. Marie have stood in solidarity since 2015 to demand fairness and dignity for working families affected by Algoma’s bankruptcy protection process.
Marty Warren Statement on Asian Heritage Month
In May, District 6 celebrates Asian Heritage Month with all Steelworkers.
News@6 Spring 2018
Check out the Ontario election edition of the News@6 newsletter for Steelworkers in District 6. Plus bargaining successes and more.
Ontario Steelworkers Talk to Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath
Steelworkers talk about worker health and safety, jobs and ending pension theft during our telephone town hall with Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath and USW Ontario Director Marty Warren.
Day of Mourning 2018
This April 28th, the National Day of Mourning, our union must once again reflect on the continuing tragedy in workplaces.
Efforts to Save Hamilton Specialty Bar Fall Short
“It’s hard to accept because if it wasn’t for mismanagement and secrecy by the previous ownership, this plant could still be open.”
Introducing Atkinson Foundation Podcast: Just Work It
'Just Work It,' is the Atkinson Foundation’s brand new platform for podcasts and events on decent work for and by those of us who are called “millennials.”
Steelworkers Ratify New Deal at Historic Haley Division, Magellan Aerospace
Collective agreement guarantees improvements in seniority, health and safety, scheduling and pensions, with wage increases averaging 5.5% over three years.
Workers Were Sold a Lie
NAFTA must defend good jobs, improve living standards and reverse growing inequality.
Deadline Passes for Hamilton Specialty Bar Purchase
Despite "extremely disappointing" situation, there is still hope for a deal to keep the mill operating.
Stepping Up to Stop Harassment
Let’s take this #MeToo #TimesUp moment as an opportunity to revisit and expand our anti-harassment policies.
Steelworkers Host Community Celebration of Hamilton’s Diversity
Hamilton Steelworkers Area Council invites the community to a free event on Mar. 18 to celebrate the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Bid to Save Hamilton Specialty Bar Faces March 26 Deadline
“If a viable bid is presented to the court by March 26 and approved, Hamilton Specialty Bar will continue to operate.”
Marty Warren’s statement for International Women’s Day 2018
This year, we can’t talk about International Women’s Day without talking about how to end workplace sexual harassment.
Canada’s Exclusion from U.S. Aluminum, Steel Tariffs Clearly Warranted
“The evidence is clear that Canadian steel and aluminum imports are not part of the problem that the U.S. administration is trying to address." – USW National Director Ken Neumann
Steelworkers Hoping New Owner Comes Forward for Hamilton Specialty Bar
“We know there are parties that still have interest in the mill and that this plant can be successful, if given the chance.” - Mickey Mercanti
KL Gold’s Delay Tactics Unnecessary, Undemocratic, Steelworkers Say
USW denounces Kirkland Lake Gold’s attempts to prolong the process to determine if employees will join the union.
Canadian Aluminum, Steel Must Be Excluded from U.S. Tariffs and Quotas: Steelworkers
“There is no justification to include Canada with countries that systematically violate trade laws.” - Ken Neumann
Goderich Security Workers Win First Contract
“These workers stood together for many months to defend their right to collective bargaining and to have union representation.” - Marty Warren
Toronto Event – Update on the Political Situation in the Philippines
Join Steelworkers and labour activists at a free event Feb. 15 to hear from leading Philippine activist and progressive politician Ms. Machris Cabreros, Leader of Akbayan (The Citizens’ Action Party).
Rejection of Metron Appeal Welcomed, but Fight for Justice Continues: Steelworkers
USW calls on Ontario government to do more to apply Westray Law in every workplace fatality.
In It to Win It – Ontario Election 2018
Let’s remember that the Ontario election isn’t about choosing between Liberals and Conservatives. There is another option, and it’s a great choice for a better Ontario: Andrea Horwath and the NDP.
Marty Warren Statement on Black History Month (2018)
As District 6 represents one of the most diverse Districts in Canada, it is important that we celebrate Black History Month each February. Steelworkers of all colours are also part of a larger community of equality-seeking groups.
USW Calls for Labour Unity in Face of Unifor's Unilateral Actions
The USW will stand with and support CLC-affiliated unions that are under attack, just as we would expect them to support us if Unifor turned on USW members, anywhere in this country.
2018 Women's March
Listing of the 2018 Women's March events in USW Distirct 6
Tim Hortons Workers Need a Union
Unfortunately, current Ontario labour laws make it virtually impossible for workers in franchise operations to join unions.