This Jewish Heritage month, we recognize and celebrate Jewish workers and the many ways Jewish communities have helped shape Canada’s labour movement. Their courage, creativity, and strong sense of justice have helped advance fair pay, safer workplaces, human rights, and dignity on the job.
Today, Jewish members of PSAC continue that work by speaking up for fairness and strong workplace protections in the federal public service. Their efforts are often guided by values of community care and tikkun olam – a call to repair the world through collective care and action.
Confronting antisemitism and building inclusive unions
Jewish workers in Canada reflect a wide range of backgrounds, languages, and lived experiences. That diversity strengthens our union and pushes us to build spaces where everyone feels safe, respected, and included.
We remember the Holocaust. We honour those who were killed and those who survived. We also recognize our shared responsibility to confront antisemitism and racism wherever they appear.
Antisemitism continues to affect Jewish workers in Canada, including in workplaces and unions. It can take the form of stereotypes, conspiracy theories, harassment, or threats. PSAC is committed to confronting it and ensuring Jewish members can fully and safely participate in union life.
We are building a truly anti-racist union that supports all equity-seeking members, including Jewish workers. That means strengthening equity committees, providing human rights and anti-racism training, and advancing protections against discrimination.
Jewish cultures, traditions, languages, and community life are part of what makes our union stronger. This Jewish Heritage Month, let’s honour that legacy and keep building more inclusive spaces for all.
This article was first published on the PSAC website.
