Congratulations Members!! We have almost made it to the end of this year; we are on the cusp of a new year!! As we come to the close of 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect with you—not just on what we’ve done, but on what work we still have to do together.
This year reminded us that equity work is neither linear nor comfortable. Members continued to navigate systemic barriers related to race, disability, gender, precarity, and access—often while carrying increased workloads and economic uncertainty. A fair assessment is that while some progress was made, inequities within our workplaces, institutions and society at large remain deeply entrenched. Recognizing this honestly is not a failure; it is a necessary starting point for meaningful action in 2026.
Over the past year, CUPE 4207 has taken steps to centre equity more deliberately in our conversations and organizing. This has included advocating for more inclusive practices, supporting members facing discrimination, and strengthening links between equity concerns and broader labour struggles. These efforts were possible because members showed up, spoke out, asked hard questions, and insisted that equity not be treated as optional or symbolic.
It’s important to acknowledge that equity work is work that advocates for job security, fair wages, and safe working conditions. When the most marginalized members are protected, the union as a whole, is stronger. The risk, if we lose sight of this, is allowing inequities to persist under the guise of neutrality.
As we move into the new year, there are clear challenges ahead. Equity fatigue is real. So is the temptation to declare progress prematurely. Our task will be to remain committed without becoming complacent in order to deepen member engagement, build accountability into our structures, and continue learning from those most impacted by injustice.
I want to thank every member who contributed to this work, whether visibly or behind the scenes. Your labour, care, and persistence matter. I also encourage those who haven’t yet found a way to engage in equity work to consider how your voice and experience can shape the direction of our local, 4207.
Join us at our first equity meeting of the new year on January 9th 2026, at 5pm.
In solidarity, equity is not a destination we’ve reached, rather it’s a practice we must sustain. I look forward to continuing this work with you in the year ahead.
Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! Happy Kwanzaa!
Warmly,
Kay Waboso
Equity Officer, CUPE 4207
