As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize and honour the contributions of black Canadians to the trades and the labour movement. Ivan Dawns is a member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) and a resolute and passionate representative for the black community in the union. Dawns has previously been honoured with a High Achievement Award by the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) for his service in mentoring youth in overcoming economic barriers as well as his hands-on support for the Helping Hands school-building program in Jamaica.
We spoke with Ivan about what propelled him to join the union, the challenges he continues to see in the black community, and why he decided to become an advocate and representative for them with the union. Ivan is also spearheading key upcoming community initiatives.
Early Days
Ivan joined the union after immigrating to Canada from Jamaica and was introduced to the trade by a member of his mother’s church. The member’s son was a drywall finisher and a member of IUPAT DC46, and he told Ivan about the trade union and its benefits, including favourable pensions and healthcare benefits. This inspired Ivan to join the union, where he subsequently worked 13 years as a drywall finisher before working for the IUPAT itself, taking on the role of Political Director.
360° Kids is a York Region youth homeless shelter that serve youths from the age of 16 to 26 years old. In this picture: Richmond Hill mayor David West, Ajax MPP Patrice Barnes and Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill MPP and Ontario Housing Minister Michael Parsa joined us for the painting project.
360° Kids is a York Region youth homeless shelter that serve youths from the age of 16 to 26 years old. In this picture: Richmond Hill mayor David West, Ajax MPP Patrice Barnes and Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill MPP and Ontario Housing Minister Michael Parsa joined us for the painting project.
Understanding Community Challenges
Ivan decided to become a representative because he felt that the black community needed someone who could relate to them and represent their interests. He saw how black workers faced discrimination and racist comments on the job, and he wanted to provide a supportive environment where they could feel comfortable speaking up and reporting any incidents. Ivan saw the lack of outreach to the black community as a major challenge in getting more black people to join the trades. He believes that having a diversity of leadership, including people who look like the community they serve, is essential in building trust and encouraging people to join union ranks.
Community Advocate and Role Model
To encourage more black people to join the trades, Ivan works with community organizations and mentors youth in racialized communities. He also sits on the boards of these organizations to provide guidance and support.
Ivan’s advice for anyone looking to progress in the industry or start a new career is to show up on time, bring a positive attitude, be eager to learn, and give 100% effort every day. As a person of integrity, he also emphasizes the importance of showing kindness to others, irrespective of their opinions or attitudes towards you.
Ivan’s annual Christmas dinner at the Back Door Mission homeless shelter in Oshawa on December 25th, 2022. In this picture: 1891 member Kristi Slade, Ivan’s son Terel, Ivan’s daughter Breann, Ivan’s nephew Ricardo, Ivan, and Ajax MPP Patrice Barnes.
Upcoming Initiatives
In addition to his work as a representative, Ivan is also involved in several initiatives to raise awareness about important issues in the industry. One such initiative is the ‘Walk the Path Walkathon”, with The Walnut Foundation, which will bring awareness to prostate cancer and highlight the importance of men’s health in the construction industry. The walk will take place on June 3rd, 2023, and all donations collected will go towards prostate cancer research, support for men and families affected by the disease, and an annual scholarship for a student to study oncology at the University of Toronto.
As we celebrate Black History Month, we look at those who have made a significant impact in their communities. Ivan Dawns is a shining example of the dedication and commitment of black Canadians to the trades and the labour movement. He is a tireless advocate for the black community and a role model for those looking to advance in the industry.
IUPAT – Supporting Your Community
IUPAT advocates for its membership and for worker rights including health and safety and competitive wages. Being part of the IUPAT community means benefitting from collective agreements and from an inclusive organization that offers members healthcare support and training opportunities. Ivan Dawns is the embodiment of the union’s core values, and we are proud of him.
