Over the past few months, District 6 members have once again shown the strength, compassion and solidarity that define our union.
Losing former International President Leo W. Gerard deeply saddened us. A proud Sudburian and lifelong trade unionist, Leo’s legacy is felt in every corner of our movement. From his early days with Local 6500 at Inco to his leadership at the helm of the USW, he never stopped fighting for fairness, justice and dignity for all working people. Leo’s vision and commitment to building global solidarity will continue to inspire.
Here at home, USW airport screeners in Ontario and the Atlantic provinces are standing firm for fair wages and benefits after more than a year of difficult bargaining. Their fight reminds us of all the critical roles workers play in keeping our communities safe, and why we must always rally behind those on the frontlines demanding respect.
District 6 members are also giving back in powerful ways. Local 8327 in eastern Ontario donated camp T-shirts to children at Camp Smitty, helping kids from all backgrounds enjoy summer experiences.
The South-Central Ontario Area Council launched its inaugural Operation Backpack, providing school supplies to families in need.
Local 2724 showed extraordinary solidarity by raising $27,603.13 through its Steelworkers Golf Tournament in support of the Twinkie Foundation, which helps families facing medical crises.
We also welcomed the launch of the Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response (POWER) Centre, a new initiative to help workers facing employment challenges. Local 2918 sets a strong example of union-led progress by ensuring women’s washrooms are stocked with hygiene products – a small but powerful step toward dignity in the workplace. In Ottawa, USW leaders met with Prime Minister Mark Carney to press for solutions that support Steelworkers and protect good jobs in our communities.
Steelworkers came out and were loud and proud at the Ontario NDP Convention in Niagara Falls, Ont., in September. Our presence sent a clear message: labour must be at the centre of the party’s agenda and working people will continue to push for policies that reflect our values and struggles.
From bargaining tables to community projects, from the shop floor to Parliament Hill, District 6 continues to lead with solidarity, compassion and determination.
In solidarity,
Kevon Stewart
USW District 6 Director
This article appears in the Winter 2025 issue of USW@Work magazine.
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First published on globeandmail.com on October 22, 2026 By Marty Warren, Special to the Globe and Mail Marty Warren, the Canadian national director of the United Steelworkers union. As I write, more workers at Hamilton’s Stelco steel mill are being laid off. In all, the plant’s U.S. owner, Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., will cut up to 500 jobs. This, […]
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