From the Desk of Smokey — Fighting for members

Friends,

As some of you may be aware, my final term serving the labour movement as OPSEU’s president is nearing an end. I will not be standing for re-election at OPSEU’s convention in April.

I am beginning to look forward to my own version of retirement. As I enter this next stage in life I keep replaying the old saying “retire from your job, but never retire your mind” in my mind.

As I look forward, I also find myself thinking about the past — to over three decades at the forefront of Ontario’s labour movement, fighting the good fight for Ontario workers and the many victories, and lessons along the way.

Taking a step back from the day-to-day doesn’t mean I’m ready to leave the labour movement entirely. Though Val and I have children and grandkids to spoil, I’m not ready to shift full-time to the cruise circuit and early bird specials just yet!

Our province is at its best when we have a strong and well-represented working class. I believe sharing my thoughts and ideas on our movement through a blog will be a way I can help continue the fight for the frontline worker, struggling to make ends meet.

Over the coming weeks, I will be writing about the big issues facing the labour movement and how we can work together to keep the fight going for better pay, benefits and help average people get ahead. I’ll also share some ideas on how the labour movement can change to get in front of big issues like COVID-19, rising provincial deficits and working from home. It won’t come as a surprise to many of you, I might get a little political and controversial along the way.

My blog is just that, mine. The posts are my unfiltered opinions, and these opinions I share are not endorsed by nor expressed on the behalf of any organization, including OPSEU. You may not agree with everything I have to say, but with a track record that speaks for itself, I hope these posts help our movement in the days ahead.

With thanks and solidarity,

Smokey