Challenges today, strength tomorrow

by Karen Littlewood (she/her), OSSTF/FEESO President

Elections are tough, they are exhausting, and they are absolutely vital to our democracy—this winter’s Ontario provincial election was no different. And while the outcome was disappointing, I want to remind everyone that we did our best, we truly did, and we had some significant wins. It’s important for us to celebrate and recognize the hard work of organized labour in this province, and to specifically congratulate our Members for taking on the challenges of running for office, being part of progressive political campaigns, engaging in local election readiness actions, and getting out the vote. However, we can still look back on the Ontario election this past winter and learn a lot from the outcome. The fact that the Ontario electorate handed Doug Ford and the Ontario Conservative government another mandate and that it undoubtedly will result in more cuts to essential programs and services means our work isn’t over and it means we need to hold tight to our solidarity. The rise of right-wing populism continues here and around the globe, and it’s why we must continue to work locally, nationally, and internationally to stand up to tyranny and fight for a just society.

I love that this issue highlights the value of international solidarity—it is truly the backbone of protecting public education and protecting the rights of workers writ large. Solidarity at all levels is something we can be proud of, and it is something I have given my life’s work to advance. The Members of our organization have become more savvy and more willing to engage in activism —this is no small feat, and it is what will ultimately bring about the change we need. I always say that activism looks different for everyone, but it has at its core the value that together we can improve the lives of all.

As this is my final “Last Word” for Education Forum, I want to take a bit of space to thank the magazine’s team—this publication is an act of true solidarity as it showcases voices from around the world, making it a magazine relevant to labour, unions, education workers, and teachers. It is no small thing that Education Forum articles are being referenced in university labour and education studies programs. This heightened gravitas of the magazine is thanks to the hard work of the editorial, graphics, translation, and distribution team, led by out-going editor, Tracey Germa. Tracey is off to enjoy her retirement, but she has left a legacy of a publication of which OSSTF/FEESO can truly be proud. I want to welcome incoming editor, Jennifer Seif, who will no doubt take things to the next level.

Finally, I want to share my deepest gratitude to the Federation, its Members and staff, and to the family of Canada’s organized labour unions. Your support and solidarity through my decades of work in public education let me be part of something of which I am incredibly proud, and which I will greatly miss. But I’m not going far—as I am apt to say, every day is a good day for a rally! So, you will no doubt spot me on a picket line or engaged in activism; here, there, or anywhere. This Federation has been my home and my family for many years, and we never truly leave home or lose our family, we just grow and expand our reach. I look forward to continued solidarity and continued activism for years to come.