Gifted and Black: Celebrating Potential and Promise

This year’s Black History Month Workshop and Gala brought USW District 6 members together for two powerful days of learning, reflection and celebration under the theme, “Gifted and Black: Celebrating Potential and Promise” – a reminder that leadership, resilience and brilliance already live within our movement.

Day 1 opened with welcome remarks from Anita Bryan, District 6 Co-ordinator, alongside Desmond Clarke, from Local 8300, grounding the space in purpose and solidarity. The Black National Anthem followed, its message of perseverance and faith setting a powerful tone as members reflected on the continued pursuit of justice and dignity throughout the workshop.

Deepak Kullar shared updates from District 3, reinforcing the importance of national solidarity within districts. Charleeka Thomspon, USW International Director of NextGen, delivered a compelling presentation on how NextGen members and marginalized communities can use collective action, union tools and solidarity to transform working conditions – rather than burning out trying to survive alone. Her message centred on building power collectively and creating pathways for leadership.

Janet Moffat from Local 9042 and District 6 staff representative Karl McBurnie presented You and Your Union, helping members better understand how the union functions and how to navigate its structure effectively The afternoon included a panel discussion with the USW National Anti-Racism Committee and a privilege exercise that encouraged thoughtful reflection and open dialogue about lived experiences in the workplace and beyond.

Day 2 continued with a focus on justice and political engagement. Chris Wilson of the Canadian Labour Congress Ontario regional office led a powerful discussion on environmental racism as a labour issue, highlighting how racialized communities are disproportionately impacted and the responsibility of unions to advance meaningful change. Members also explored leadership development and the importance of encouraging Black and racialized workers to pursue political roles. A moving video on the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters reflected on the courage and organizing legacy of Black workers who helped build the labour movement. The workshop concluded with an inspiring spoken word by Fitzroy Dixon of Local 3950, reminding participants of both history and responsibility.

At the Gala, Jey Raja of Local 3950 reflected on attending the workshop for a second time: “I learned how to be an ally and to come together and show solidarity.” He encouraged young members in his local to get involved and support racialized and marginalized workers.

The Gala was a vibrant celebration of culture and unity. Earl Samuels from Local 2784 and Desmond Clarke from Local 8300 served as MCs, opening the evening with warmth and energy. Janet Moffat acknowledged the Human Rights sub-committee and the event’s origins.

Anita Bryan, USW District 6 Co-ordinator, reflected on the significance of creating intentionl spaces within the labour movement- spaces rooted in representation and belonging that were not available to her when she first started.

“I wish a workshop like this existed when I first got involved in the union,” she shared. “Spaces where Black workers can see themselves in leadership, build confidence and know they are not alone. This is about building the next generation and making sure no one has to navigate these spaces by themselves.”

District 6 Director Kevon Stewart reminded attendees that “Black History is union history,” while Kevin Mapp, USW International Vice-President (Human Affairs), reinforced the importance of international solidarity and celebrating Black Steelworkers across borders.

The evening closed with music, dancing, and a powerful live show by Onela, who sang “Circle of Life” from The Lion King Musical, leaving members energized, connected, and recommitted to building power together.

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