Central and Local Strike Votes
OCETFO/FEEO would like to thank the large numbers of Members who came out last night to engage with their Union and to show support for their colleagues and their Bargaining Team. We are very heartened by the turnout. On short notice, at a busy time of year, ETFO Members turned out decisively to provide a strong mandate for LOCAL STRIKE ACTION with a resoundingly affirmative vote.
Following our lead, ETFO Locals around the Province will be holding similar votes until 17 October. Results of the Central and our Local Strike votes will be shared once that process is complete. Until then, we THANK YOU for your strong message of Solidarity.
20 September Protests
On Wednesday, 20 September, protests will occur across the country in opposition to human rights education, specifically 2SLGBTQ+ education in schools. As a social justice union, ETFO and OCETFO/FEEO believe that any actions or events that seek to undermine the rights and dignity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community must be denounced. As such, we strongly condemn this week’s planned protests and stand in solidarity with students, families, and members across the province in the protection of 2SLGBTQ+ rights, in both classrooms and workplaces.
Members who are feeling unsafe in their workplace should report this to their administrator/supervisor. They are also encouraged to reach out to their Health & Safety representative Lee-Anne Feltham, the OCETFO/FEEO Office, or to call ETFO Professional Relations Services at 1-888-838-3836.
Members who may be personally impacted by these protests are advised to prioritize their own wellness. Members may wish to reach out access the Employee Assistance Program through Shepell at 1-800-668-0193.
Members should be aware that their students and colleagues may also be experiencing impacts stemming from these protests and should be prepared to identify and respond to related incidents of homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of discrimination. If members are experiencing opposition to 2SLGBTQ+ education in their school or classroom, they are encouraged to reach out to their Principal and/or Union for support. Teachers are also supported in doing this work by Board policy PR 098 CUR- Equity and Inclusive Education P.098.CUR (ocdsb.ca) , the Ontario College of Teachers, the Ministry of Education, and the Ontario Human Rights Commission.
Members have professional responsibilities under the Education Act, the Human Rights Code, and as members of the Ontario College of Teachers or College of Early Childhood Educators. Participation in these protests, including via social media, may contravene these responsibilities and could lead to possible disciplinary action. Members who choose to participate in protests/counter protests are reminded to do so on their own time.
ETFO resources to support 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion and education can be found here: https://www.etfo.ca/socialjusticeunion/2slgbtq
In Solidarity,
Rebecca, Susan, Stephen, Jennifer, and Brian