Ontario Federation of Labour endorses call for federal apology for Canada's role in enslavement of Africans
OFL stands with CBTU Canada in demanding recognition, accountability and racial justice
TORONTO, Nov. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) is endorsing the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Canada's campaign calling on the Government of Canada to issue a formal apology for its role in the trafficking and enslavement of Africans.
The endorsement recognizes Canada's responsibility to confront its history of slavery and acknowledge the lasting harm and intergenerational impacts on Black communities.
“Canada cannot move forward without honestly confronting its past. The trafficking and enslavement of Africans generated enormous wealth through violence, exploitation and stolen lives. A formal apology is an important step toward acknowledging this history and accepting responsibility for its lasting impacts,” said Laura Walton, President of the OFL.
“Black people helped build this country, yet generations have faced exploitation, exclusion and discrimination. Our history, contributions and humanity deserve to be recognized. An apology must be more than words. It must be part of a commitment to confronting anti-Black racism and advancing justice,” said Yolanda McClean, President of CUPE Ontario, Vice President on the OFL’s Executive Board and President of CBTU Canada.
“For Black workers, the legacy of slavery is not just in the past. Systemic racism, workplace discrimination and economic inequality continue to shape experiences. We must challenge the structures that continue to disadvantage Black workers,” said Ahmad Gaied, Secretary-Treasurer of the OFL.
“The labour movement has a responsibility to stand alongside Black workers and communities. That means confronting racism, challenging systemic barriers and fighting for workplaces where Black workers have the dignity, opportunity and protections they deserve,” said Michael Hamilton, Executive Vice-President of the OFL.
The endorsement comes during the United Nations' Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034), focused on recognition, justice and development.
The OFL recognizes that the fight for workers' rights is inseparable from the fight for racial justice. The Federation commends CBTU Canada for its leadership and calls on labour organizations, community groups and allies across the country to support this campaign for truth, accountability and justice.
The Ontario Federation of Labour represents 54 unions and one million workers in Ontario. It is the largest provincial labour federation in Canada. Visit OFL.ca and follow @OFLabour on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
For media inquiries:
Kat Heaney
Communications Coordinator
kheaney@ofl.ca
416-894-3456
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