This past weekend, I had the privilege of participating, in the PSAC Ontario 10th Triennial Convention, held June 12 to 14, 2026 at the Hilton Markham. The three days featured smudging ceremony, speakers, cultural performances, resolutions, elections and discussions. The convention was both engaging and impactful, providing an opportunity to learn, share experiences and connect with other convention participants.
The Convention opened on Friday, June 12, 2026, with a First Time Delegate Orientation focused on Rules of Order (i.e., point of order, question of privilege, challenge to the chair and so forth), followed by a smudging ceremony, an Indigenous opening led by Dorothy Peters and a performance by Red Sky Performance. PSAC National President Sharon DeSousa addressed key issues, including public service cuts, collective bargaining, the government’s AI strategy, and the return to office mandate. After delegates adopted the Finance Committee Report, the day concluded with remarks from Charles Chaboyer and Elections for the Young Worker and Indigenous Member Representatives.
On Saturday, June 13, 2026, the Convention, opened with screenings of Organizing to Win and We are 40,000 Strong. Then, Justice Donald McLeod, delivered a powerful address on the importance of solidarity, community engagement and public services. This was followed by a cultural performance by Bollywood Dance School Canada. Throughout the day, delegates discussed and adopted several resolutions.
On Sunday, June 14, 2026, Convention’s third and final day, focused on elections, for Regional Executive Vice-President, Alternate Regional Executive Vice-President, Second Alternate Regional Executive Vice-President and Ontario Council and Alternates in Caucuses. The Convention concluded with the swearing in of newly elected and re-elected representatives. Congratulations to all elected, including Local 541 President Neruson Murugesamoorthy, who was elected as Region 5 First Alternate.
At first, attending the Convention felt overwhelming, but as it progressed, listening to other participants’ stories became both enlightening and inspiring. I am grateful that I applied and was accepted as a Delegate. The Convention provided valuable insight into how conventions operate, including procedures for first-time delegates, speaking at the microphone, and participating in votes by expressing support with “yay” or opposition with “nay.” It also reinforced a strong sense of unity, solidarity, and the message that “Diversity is Our Strength.”
