Your Federation - Summer 2022

Spring Representative Council

ETFO’s spring Representative Council meeting took place on May 11 and 12, 2022 at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto. It was the first in-person Representative Council since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. ETFO welcomed guest speaker Olivia Chow, who spoke about the critical work of educators and the importance of organizing together to defeat the Ford Conservatives in the June election. President Karen Brown thanked leaders and members for their tireless work through the pandemic and encouraged everyone to continue to organize to defeat the Ford Conservatives in the June election. “We have an opportunity in the next three weeks to make sure this attack on public education and other public services stops. The results will set the stage for the next round of bargaining. But it’s going to take all of us in this room focusing on that single goal and ensuring we do everything we can to motivate and mobilize our members and supporters.”

Honouring Vic Medland, Chief Executive Officer OTIP

ETFO honours Vic Medland, who has supported ETFO members through his work at the Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan for the past 25 years. His advocacy has ensured that Ontario educators have the health and financial supports they need. ETFO thanks Vic for going above and beyond in his dedication and support.

National Indigenous Peoples Day

In co-operation with national Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada designated June 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day. This date was chosen because it corresponds to the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and because for generations, many Indigenous groups have celebrated their culture and heritage at this time of year. National Indigenous History Month in June is an opportunity to teach students about the cultural diversity of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Canada and to celebrate the unique contributions of Indigenous Peoples. You can find great resources at etfofnmi.ca.

Pride 2022

Most Pride events across Ontario are resuming this year. Pride is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate with those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+, and to come together to support the ongoing fight against homophobia, transphobia, and the broad range of intersectional oppression experienced by members of the queer community. Pride is also an integral part of inclusive classrooms and the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario continues to work towards creating safe and inclusive spaces in all of Ontario’s public schools and classrooms. Check out the list of local Pride events at etfo.ca.