North Simcoe Muskoka District Labour Council

08/12/2026

UN Secretary-General's message on International Youth Day, 12 August 2026.
▶ https://www.un.org/en/observances/youth-day

"On International Youth Day, we celebrate the creativity, dynamism and leadership of young people everywhere.

This year’s theme – “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations” – reflects a simple truth: that despite their many differences, young people across the globe share similar hopes for dignity, participation and opportunity.

It also acknowledges that the toughest challenges younger generations face – most notably economic uncertainty, digital inclusion and climate change – transcend national borders and demand a coordinated response.

Young people are already leading the way as organizers and innovators. But to go further, they need access to the skills that will shape the future – from critical thinking and problem-solving to digital literacy.

By working with young people as equal partners, we can unlock the demographic dividend, accelerate sustainable development, and bring their energy and expertise to bear on some of the defining crises of our time. They must also be granted a greater role in decision-making processes at the local, national, and international levels.

What unites the world’s young people is greater than what divides them. The United Nations stands with youth everywhere in their call for investment and inclusion. Together, let us build a present and future where every generation can thrive."

06/27/2026

Canada’s strength lies in its diversity. Let’s celebrate and support the rich cultures and contributions of all communities in our workplaces and beyond. 🌍

06/22/2026

Shame on FordNation and his Government if true. Opseu Developmental Services and Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) were loud and proud and present.

06/19/2026

Juneteenth reminds us that freedom, justice, and equality are not achieved the moment a law is passed. It took more than two years for the last enslaved people in the United States to learn they were free.

As we reflect on Juneteenth, we also acknowledge Canada's own history of slavery and the ongoing work to confront its legacy. Today, we honour the resilience of those who fought for freedom and recommit ourselves to building a more just and equitable future for all.

06/16/2026

📅 June 27
🕐 1 pm
📍Barrie @ 70 Collier st.

06/12/2026

Child labour has no place in our world. Let’s work towards a future where every child can learn, grow, and thrive in a safe environment. 🚸✊

06/04/2026

The Importance of Intersectionality:
As we recognize both Pride Month and National Indigenous History Month, it is important to recognize the importance of celebrating both of these movements, and the many communities of Indigenous 2SLGBTQ+ folk. Many Indigenous people identify as two-spirit, an identity that has been an instrumental part of Indigenous culture and history for ages. As we recognize Pride Month, it is important to recognize the importance of uplifting the voices of 2S individuals, and Indigenous folk who are also celebrating their q***r identities. 🧡🏳️‍🌈

06/02/2026

This year's National AccessAbility Week theme is "Building a Strong, Accessible Canada."

It invites all of us, including governments, businesses, organizations, and individuals, to take action to advance a barrier-free country.
Our country is stronger when people of all abilities can participate fully in all aspects of society.🩼🦽🦯🧩👂

05/31/2026

We’re proud to stand alongside Five Points Media. And we would strongly urge any progressive organization or person to do the same. This is how you protect democracy: by supporting those who shine a light on issues that are too often ignored or under-reported on.

Act now. Support Five Points!

We want to relay a very sincere and deep thank you to the North Simcoe Muskoka District Labour Council for their continued support of our efforts to provide a voice to those who have been silenced in The City of Barrie and the County of Simcoe.

We know that this great organization has reached out to many other unions and labour organizations, asking them to do likewise. We are now being contacted with regard to what we need and how they can help.

These are all great people who work tirelessly to help Canadian workers and families.

We will let them explain why they believe in a free voice for all.

____________________________________

Hi John,

On behalf of the North Simcoe Muskoka and District Labour Council, I wanted to reach out personally and let you know that the Labour Council has voted to donate $2,500 to support 5 Points Media and the incredibly important work that you do.

Quite simply, organizations like 5 Points matter.

At a time when many media outlets have pulled back from meaningful local reporting and community advocacy, you continue to show up — often shining a light on issues, people, and struggles that others either overlook or actively avoid. Whether it’s workers, vulnerable community members, grassroots campaigns, social justice issues, or the realities facing underhoused individuals in our communities, 5 Points has consistently chosen courage over convenience.

That matters deeply to the labour movement.

Many of our affiliates have seen firsthand the way 5 Points has supported causes and events connected to workers and progressive community advocacy across our region. The work you do is principled, human, and often undertaken in spaces where speaking honestly can come with significant personal and financial risk.

We also recognize the reality that independent organizations are too often forced into exhausting battles simply because they are willing to challenge powerful institutions or ask difficult questions. The “bury them in costs and pressure” strategy is real, and solidarity matters in moments like these.

Please accept this contribution as a sign that the labour movement in our region sees the value in your work and appreciates the role you continue to play in our communities.

Keep fighting the good fight. What you do matters more than you probably hear.

In solidarity,

Mike
North Simcoe Muskoka and District Labour Council

05/27/2026

The work done by our colleagues at Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) Community Living, and other social service organizations, is crucial for so many people and families. Join them on the picket line to show your support.