Following the resignation of Jagmeet Singh as leader of the federal New Democratic Pary, CUPE Ontario pays tribute to his leadership and accomplishments over the past eight years and expresses gratitude for the grace, strength and example he always showed as the first racialized leader of a major party in Canada.
Jagmeet is a familiar face to CUPE Ontario members. He and his fellow NDP MPs attend countless rallies, marches, conferences and picket lines in support of workers’ rights and causes. There is never a question: Jagmeet and the NDP have our backs.
Under his leadership, the NDP used their bargaining power to improve material outcomes for working class people in Canada. The party was the driving force behind the most dramatic expansion of our social programs that we have seen in decades.
Through what was known as the supply and confidence agreement, the NDP won free dental care for millions and the start of a national pharmacare program. It ensured funding for accessible and affordable childcare across the country and the passage of federal anti-scab legislation that protects striking workers. For millions of people in Canada, the NDP under Jagmeet Singh made a real and measurable difference.
Jagmeet and the federal NDP also provided sorely needed moral leadership on the war in Gaza, introducing in Parliament a comprehensive motion that finally committed Canada to calling for an immediate ceasefire and an end to arms exports to Israel.
Public life takes its toll on anyone in politics. In the current climate of hate, fear and discrimination, Jagmeet Singh bore the added weight of being a target of racism, both societal and institutional. Yet he himself never wavered in his commitment to inclusion, justice and fairness. He brought us hope, he reminded us of the importance of principles, and he brought joy to an often staid political scene. He is part of the proud tradition of leadership in the party of labour, from Tommy Douglas to Jack Layton and now, to Jagmeet Singh. Through these figures, we trace the arc of the progressive principles that are the foundations of this country.
We now enter a time of renewal for the federal party of working people. The NDP plays a crucial role in our democracy; that role is vitally important to workers and to the broader labour movement in the space the NDP occupies in the national dialogue. CUPE Ontario members will proudly play our part in this next phase for the federal NDP.
Jagmeet, on behalf of the leaders, activists, and members of CUPE in Ontario, we offer our deep appreciation, thanks and solidarity to you.
