Unifor endorses FedForward leadership team for OFL

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Unifor has thrown its support behind the team of three principled, determined and experienced trade unionists to run for the election at the upcoming convention of the Ontario Federation of Labour. The team, made up of Unifor’s Chris Buckley for President, Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation’s Patty Coates as Secretary-Treasurer and United Food and Commercial Workers union’s Ahmad Gaied as Executive Vice-President.

“Together, this team represents the diversity of workers in Ontario and have put forward a progressive vision for the future of our movement in Ontario and Ontario workers,” said Unifor National President Jerry Dias.

The trio is running under the banner of FedForward, with the goal of uniting the labour movement in Ontario and advocating for progressive labour law reform. The Ontario Federation of Labour Convention will be held November 23-27 at the Sheraton Centre, downtown Toronto.

“I believe we owe it to working people, whether they belong to a union or not, to have strong representation at the provincial level,” said Chris Buckley. “I know what it is to take on challenges and to win – I will bring this determination to the job.”

Chris Buckley is a long-time trade unionist, social justice advocate and former President of Unifor Local 222 in Oshawa, a large amalgamated local union.  During his time as a rank and file leader, Chris was also the chair of the General Motors master bargaining committee and led negotiations with GM in four rounds of talks.

Patty Coates is an educational assistant, a passionate activist and the President of the Educational Assistant Bargaining Unit of OSSTF District 17 Simcoe, representing educational assistants and early childhood educators. Patty is also the President of the Barrie and District Labour Council.

Ahmad Gaied is a Member Engagement Representative for UFCW Canada Local 1000A.  A tireless community advocate, Ahmad began his activism as a chief steward at his No Frills store in 2003. At
33-years-old, Ahmad is a worker of colour, a proud member of the Muslim community, and an ardent supporter of grassroots and worker-led initiatives.