CJLC May 2025 Newsletter
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The Canadian Jewish Labour Committee (CJLC), made up of Jewish members across multiple provincial and federal unions, has been working closely with Jewish workers across the country since its official launch on September 3, 2024. Guided by our mission statement, we continue to focus on the pressing issues of combating antisemitism within the union environment as well as advancing inclusive policies. |
Introduction
Greetings to everyone. My name is Kim Kazur and I have stepped in to support the work of CJLC friend and mentor Jeff Arbus while he is on a leave of absence.
After 31 years in child welfare, I am a newly retired OPSEU member. My activism comes from a legacy of strong and fearless women in my own family and by colleagues who have influenced my journey. Along with always being involved at the Local level, including being Local president for 15+ years, I sat on the CAS Sector Bargaining Council as a regional rep and on convention committees chairing both the Credentials Committee and the Resolutions Committee.
At OPSEU’s 2024 convention, Jeff asked me to locate a small group of Jewish women who were struggling with the toxic and intimidating atmosphere of Convention. They wanted to discuss an emergency resolution. We did some great work at that convention and remained in contact throughout the year. I am motivated and excited to help combat antisemitism in organizations; every tiny success builds upon the strength of mobilizing across Canada to ensure we communicate the clear and respectful expectations that we demand from all unions and faculties.
History Was Made
At OPSEU’s 2025 Convention, the first ever Jewish Caucus meeting was held. Because of previous experiences, we arranged for a few of our corrections members to stand outside and in the meeting room. A number of allies also came to support the caucus, including executive board members and equity members. During the meeting, attendees introduced themselves, passed around a sign-up sheet for communications, and answered questions from the attendees regarding the path and the common goals of the caucus. Once the formal meeting ended, the room exploded with positive energy - it was a special moment. The attendees realized that they are a group of people, rooted in their Jewish heritage, and that they were not alone in their struggles to fight antisemitism. They were laughing and hugging, leaving the meeting room as a united and energized force.
Since that historic first meeting, the caucus has met with OPSEU staff to create their Terms of Reference and to establish the goals of the caucus.
The unity and trust that this first meeting created led to a strategized defeat of a pro-Palestinian resolution regarding an arms embargo. The resolution was defeated with a 60% AGAINST vote.
Antisemitism At CUPE MB ConventionAt the CUPE Manitoba Convention, one of our activists made a passionate, fact-based and brave speech against a resolution for defining Anti-Palestinian Racism, which also lent itself to allowing bad actors to use the pro-Palestine movement to spread antisemitism targeted at Israel. The activist successfully encouraged the members to vote to remove any reference to antisemitism in their definition. Unfortunately, the Resolutions Committee had final say and did not listen to the will of the house. Despite this, we continue to fight. Please see attached statement released Friday Ready to RockCUPE Ontario’s convention happens at the end of the month. More info to come. Strategic WinCUPE BC members lobbied to stop a resolution that asked the government to drop the IHRA definition of antisemitism. CUPE regional director confirmed that the resolution was stopped and will not be brought before the board for debate. Starting to Rally TogetherPSAC Jewish members have created a group chat and are getting to know each other and finding support in pushing back against antisemitism in their union. The Battle ContinuesCAPE Jewish members continue to fight against antisemitism. Some in CAPE leadership roles are making known their antisemitic feelings in op-eds and public statements. We are developing a strategy to confront the situation. Confronting AntisemitismHSA BC Jewish members have just sent a letter to their leadership to address outstanding resolutions that did not make it to the floor at Convention. The letter addresses several antisemitic resolutions, correcting the outrageous claims and distortions of the truth by the submitting bodies. HSA also decided to deliver a workshop series regarding Palestine and Israel interests – two different sessions for each side. Of concern is the selection of “Labour For Palestine” as one of the presenters. A letter was sent to leadership as well, outlining the concerns and risks of a presentation by such as group. We are hoping they cancel that workshop and bring in a legitimate group. |
Stay Connected!If you or someone you know is a Jewish union member in Canada, connect with the CJLC and stand strong with other Jewish union members. Together we must act to foster safe places for Jewish people in labour unions. Join us at www.canadianjlc.ca. Stay connected with CJLC! Follow us on social media for the latest news, updates and actions. Join the conversation and be part of our community! |
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