TORONTO, ON – The following is a statement from Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) President Karen Brown:

“The Keeping Students in School Act, Bill 28, was an unprecedented attack on collective bargaining rights, the likes of which had not been seen in Ontario’s history. Today, we celebrate the repeal of this oppressive bill, which was accomplished through the courage of CUPE education workers and the collective power of workers and families across Ontario. 

Had the labour community and our allies not stood up in steadfast solidarity to defend workers’ constitutional rights, the Ford government would have moved forward with its draconian legislation. The strength, power and unity of the labour movement should never be underestimated. May this serve as a reminder that the workers, united, will never be defeated. 

Premier Ford was pressured into making the right decision to walk back Bill 28. We hope that, after the events of these last few weeks, the Ford government will focus on negotiating fair agreements that protect public schools, and support students, educators, and other education workers. 

ETFO is prepared to sit down at the bargaining table to ‘get it done,’ but not at the expense of students and educators in this province. We are prepared to fight for our schools and our future.

ETFO will continue to advocate for investments needed to maintain our high-quality public education system. We need smaller classes, better supports for students with special education needs, and improved mental health supports.

One thing is clear: when we take action together, we win. 

There’s a lot of work ahead of us, but today, let’s celebrate this historic victory for our CUPE colleagues and the working people of Ontario.”