Black History Month is a time to recognize the leaders whose courage, advocacy, and commitment have shaped the labour movement in Canada. On Friday, February 20, 2026, IUPAT proudly hosted its Black History Month Celebration at Union Hall in Toronto, bringing together members, elected officials, labour partners, and community leaders for an evening of reflection and unity.
The event served as both a tribute to the past and a call to action for the future on behalf of Black trade workers. It reminded us that progress in the trades is built through solidarity, representation, and shared purpose.
A Powerful Gathering of Leaders
This year’s celebration featured an impressive lineup of guest speakers representing all three levels of government:
- Anthony Perruzza, City Councillor for Humber River–Black Creek
- Graham McGregor, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism
- Tom Rakocevic, MPP for Humber River–Black Creek
- Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition
- Kurt Davis, Jamaican Consul General
- Mani Singh, Guyanese Consul General
- Mohamed Firin, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development
Their presence underscored the importance of partnership between labour and government and the shared responsibility of building opportunities for Black trade workers.
Notable attendees also included:
- Bruno Mandic, IUPAT DC46 BMST
- Liz McElroy, IUPAT General Vice President for Government Affairs
- Laura Walton, President of the Ontario Federation of Labour
- Andrea Babbington, President of the Toronto and York Region Labour Council
- Representatives from the Ontario Construction Secretariat, Helmet to Hardhat, Provincial Building Trades, and affiliated unions
- Stephen Dasko, Mississauga Ward 1 City Councillor
- John Zerucelli, Federal Secretary of Labour
It was particularly meaningful to see elected officials from different political parties and levels of government come together with the labour movement to celebrate Black History Month.
Spotlight on Leadership: Ivan Dawns
At the heart of the evening was Ivan Dawns, IUPAT Political Director and one of the key coordinators of the event.
Ivan’s leadership reflects the very progress the celebration was designed to honour. His work within IUPAT continues to focus on representation, mentorship, and strengthening pathways into the trades for Black trade workers and future generations.
When asked about the most important message he hoped attendees would take away, Ivan emphasized legacy and responsibility:
“Nation building doesn’t stop with us. Just like our ancestors laid the foundation so we could stand where we are today, it’s our responsibility to continue building for the generations that follow.”
He also spoke to the importance of hosting events like this within a multicultural union:
“IUPAT is a multicultural union and that means we must celebrate every culture. Black labour leaders have done so much to create opportunity for Black trade workers, including for someone like me to be in the position I’m in today.”
The Impact: Recognition and Appreciation
Beyond the speeches and formal program, the impact of the evening was deeply personal. One of the core goals of the event was for Black members to feel appreciated and celebrated.
The presence of leaders from across government and labour reinforced that message. It signaled that Black excellence in the trades is not only acknowledged but respected at the highest levels.
Continuing the Work
While Black History Month offers a dedicated time for reflection, the work of building equity and opportunity in the trades continues year-round.
This year’s celebration demonstrated what is possible when unions, governments, and community leaders stand together. It also reminded us that the labour movement’s strength lies in its diversity and in the leaders, past and present, who have worked tirelessly to expand opportunity for all.
The 2026 Black History Month Celebration was not just an event. It was a reaffirmation of our commitment to nation building, solidarity, and the future of our industry.
Looking to get involved? Contact us today.
