This day commemorates the events of 1960 in Sharpeville, South Africa, where 69 people were killed during a peaceful protest against apartheid pass laws. It remains a powerful reminder of the consequences of systemic racism and the importance of continued action to address discrimination in all its forms.

In the Yukon and across Canada, racialized and Indigenous workers continue to face barriers in employment, unequal treatment, and systemic inequities that affect their safety, dignity, and opportunities. These realities are not abstract. They are experienced in workplaces, institutions, and communities every day.

As a labour organization, the Yukon Federation of Labour recognizes that advancing workers’ rights must include confronting racism and promoting equity. Building fair and inclusive workplaces requires more than statements. It requires accountability, representation, and sustained commitment.

Racial discrimination continues to impact workers in very real ways. As a labour movement, we have a responsibility to stand firmly against it, to listen to those affected, and to ensure our workplaces are safe, inclusive, and equitable for everyone. This is not only about awareness. It is about action and responsibility.

On this day, the Yukon Federation of Labour reaffirms its commitment to:

• Promote dignity, respect, and equality for all workers
• Challenge racism and discrimination in all workplaces
• Support policies and initiatives that advance equity and inclusion
• Work in partnership with communities to address systemic barriers

Eliminating racial discrimination is a shared responsibility. It requires leadership, education, and concrete action at every level.

As we mark March 21, we recognize that creating a just and inclusive society depends on the steps we take today and every day.

The post International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

The Yukon Federation of Labour requests that affiliated organizations submit nominations for the position of Secretary of the Federation.

This is a key governance role within the executive board, responsible for accurate recording, coordination, and communication of the federation’s work in accordance with the YFL Constitution.

Duties of the Secretary

As set out in Article 8 of the Constitution of the Yukon Federation of Labour, the secretary is responsible for:

*Issuing the call for all Conventions of the Federation
*Acting as Secretary at all Conventions
*Ensuring that the proceedings of all Conventions are recorded
*Recording the proceedings of all sessions of the Executive Board and Executive Council
*Forwarding copies of all proceedings to the Canadian Labour Congress
*On a quarterly basis, contacting affiliated organizations to request current membership numbers
*Reporting to the Convention of the Federation through the report of the Executive Council

Eligibility and selection

Residency
The nominee must be a resident of the Yukon, as required for members of the Executive Board.
Union standing
The nominee must be a member in good standing of an organization affiliated with the Yukon Federation of Labour, or a full-time union representative assigned to service an affiliated organization.

Governance capacity
The nominee must be able to regularly attend meetings of the Executive Board and the Executive Council, including monthly Board meetings and quarterly Council meetings, in accordance with the responsibilities of Officers.

Acceptance of nomination
The nominee must formally accept the nomination and agree to serve if elected by the Executive Council.

How to submit a nomination?

Affiliated organizations are asked to submit nominations using the nomination form.

Completed forms and any questions, please contact us by email at everett.ledoux@yukonfed.com.

In Solidarity,

Yukon Federation of Labour

The post Nominations for Secretary appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

Ledoux’s vision for the Federation is rooted in fairness, equality, democracy, and respect for every worker. His platform emphasized stronger employment standards, reforms to the Yukon Public Service Act, improved protections under the Workers’ Compensation Act, and greater support for immigrant and ethnically diverse workers.

“The Yukon runs on workers. Our Federation must reflect that strength by building a fairer, more united movement. I am honoured to serve as President and to continue the fight for transparency, accountability, and respect for every worker in this territory,” said Ledoux.

Newly Elected Board Members and Trustees

Alongside President Ledoux, the Yukon Federation of Labour is pleased to announce the elected officers and Trustees who will guide the Federation in the coming term:

• 1^st Vice President: Winnie Hoe, member of Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC)
• 2^nd Vice President: Mac Clohan, member of Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW)
• Treasurer: Daniel Bader, member of Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC)
• Trustees: Sherry Masters, Erik Miller, Beverly Gunn (members of PSAC and USW)
• Youth Representative on Council: Tiara Topps, member of PSAC

This leadership team reflects the diversity and strength of Yukon’s labour movement, committed to advancing protections, amplifying worker voices, and ensuring democratic participation across the territory.  The position of Secretary is still vacant and open for nominations from affiliate locals.  

About the Yukon Federation of Labour

The Yukon Federation of Labour represents thousands of workers across the territory, advocating for fairness, equality, and safe workplaces. As the voice of Yukon’s labour movement, the Federation works to strengthen democratic participation, protect worker rights, and build solidarity across communities.

For more information, please contact:

Everett Ledoux

President, Yukon Federation of Labour

yfl@yukonfed.com

867-456-8250

The post Yukon Federation of Labour Announces New Leadership Team appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

“Wildland firefighters put their lives on the line every season, facing toxic smoke, extreme conditions, and long-term health risks. Presumptive coverage is not a privilege—it is a necessity,” said Ever Ledoux, newly elected President of the Yukon Federation of Labour. “We applaud the Premier’s words, but now we need action. Every day without coverage is another day these workers remain vulnerable.”

Background

• Presumptive cancer coverage ensures that firefighters diagnosed with certain cancers are automatically recognized as having developed the illness due to occupational exposure, streamlining access to compensation and support.
• Municipal firefighters in Yukon already benefit from this protection, but wildland firefighters have been excluded, despite facing equal or greater risks.
• During the recent election, YFL and the Yukon Employees’ Union (YEU) raised this issue as a priority, alongside broader commitments to worker safety, healthcare access, and accountability in compensation systems.

YFL’s Call to Action

The Yukon Federation of Labour urges the Government of Yukon to:

• Set a clear timeline for implementing presumptive cancer coverage for wildland firefighters.
• Engage directly with unions and frontline workers to ensure the list of covered cancers reflects national and international best practices.
• Guarantee parity between municipal and wildland firefighters in occupational protections.
• Strengthen accountability at the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Board to ensure claims are processed fairly and quickly.

“Firefighters should not have to wait for political processes to catch up with the reality of their work,” added Ledoux. “The government has made the promise—now it must deliver.”

Next Steps

The Yukon Federation of Labour has requested a meeting with the Premier in the new year to discuss the implementation of presumptive coverage and other urgent worker protection issues.

For more information, please contact:

Everett Ledoux

President, Yukon Federation of Labour

yfl@yukonfed.com

867-456-8250

The post Yukon Federation of Labour Calls for Urgent Action on Presumptive Cancer Coverage for Wildland Firefighters appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

To read about their plans to tackle big issues like housing, healthcare, environment and economics, you can see their full response side-by-side in the latest issue of What’sUpYukon Magazine or click the links below to see the official responses from the Liberal Party, the Yukon Party and the Yukon NDP.

We want to remind everyone to think about #yukonworkers and the jobs you want to see for future Yukoners when you head to the polls. Advance polls are already open, and voting day is Monday, November 3rd. Look up where to vote at electionsyukon.ca and make your vote count!

Here’s what we asked:

1. Housing and affordability – How will your government ensure that housing in Yukon becomes more affordable for residents while avoiding speculative development and inflated land and housing prices that disadvantage local families?
2. Environmental accountability – What specific measures will you put in place to guarantee environmental accountability in mining exploration and development, ensuring that projects meet strong sustainability and reclamation standards?
3. Healthcare and community access – What actions will you take to strengthen healthcare across Yukon communities, including keeping local healthcare centres open and increasing local capacity for healthcare treatments?
4. Healthcare Workforce Wellbeing
   What specific actions will your government take to improve morale and workplace culture within Yukon’s healthcare system, and how will you ensure that healthcare workers retain their pension and employment stability during the transition to the Shäw Kwä’ą health authority?
5. Wildland Firefighter Protections
   How will your government support presumptive cancer coverage and occupational protections for Yukon’s wildland firefighters, ensuring parity with municipal firefighters and alignment with national and international best practices?
6. Worker Safety and Compensation Reform
   How will you strengthen the integrity and transparency of Yukon’s Workers’ Safety and Compensation Board to ensure it operates in the best interest of injured workers—particularly by improving claim approval processes, accountability mechanisms, and worker-centered outcomes?
7. Protection for Immigrant Workers
   What commitments will you make to safeguard the rights of immigrant workers in Yukon, including enforcing employer compliance with Yukon Nominee Program agreements, preventing exploitative practices, and ensuring pathways to permanent residency are supported rather than obstructed?

Official response from the Liberal Party.

Official response from the Yukon Party.

Official response from the Yukon NDP.

Need a bit more incentive to get involved in this election? Try to get a line with our Yukon Elections Bingo Card and post your progress by election day!

The post The Parties running in the 2025 Yukon Election answer some of the Biggest Questions from Yukon Workers appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

This tragedy is a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust safety standards, emergency preparedness, and oversight—especially in remote and seasonal work environments. Every worker deserves to return home safely, regardless of location, age, or employment status. Yukon mines historically had strong union representation that fought for safety standards. We see increasing risks with great cost when there is no union presence.

We call on territorial and federal authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation, to ensure that workers’ compensation justice is handed out and lessons are learned and acted upon. The Yukon Federation of Labour stands ready to support affected families and communities, and to advocate for better enforcement of safety standards and fair worker representation for all workers across the territory.

As part of our ongoing commitment to worker safety and healing, we invite the public to join us for an online discussion with Threads of Life on November 20, 2025. This event will explore the human impact of workplace tragedy and the importance of prevention, support, and remembrance.

Click Here to Register: Before and After Workplace Accidents with Threads of Life and Guest Speaker Russell

November 20, 2025 at
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM MST

Online Workshop over Zoom.

The post Worker Deaths in Remote Yukon Mining Camp appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

Get your friends, your neighbour, or your union crew together and turn election season into something civic and joyful. Our Yukon Election Bingo card mixes serious questions voters should ask candidates with easy, empowering actions people can take before election day. Mark a square each time you ask a candidate a question, attend an event, or complete an action. Snap a photo of your bingo, post it with the hashtag #YukonVotes, and share it with the Yukon Federation of Labour so we can celebrate community engagement.

How to Use the Card

• Print or open the card on your phone and carry it to candidate events or house meetings.
• Aim for one line, two lines, or a full card — every checked box is progress.
• Treat the card as a conversation starter and a checklist for issues that matter to Yukon workers and families.

Click to download PDF of the Bingo Card.

Highlights of labour priorities on the card

Better Living
Housing affordability, responsive land development, modernizing the Northern Living Allowance, and support for renters and first-time buyers are central to keeping Yukon families local and secure.

Action to watch for: increase affordable homeownership and affordable land access for residents, incentives for missing middle housing, land stewardship with indigenous and cooperative housing, and first-time buyer supports.

Inclusive Workplaces and Standards
Strong territorial employment standards, expanded sick-leave protections, and meaningful enforcement to protect casual, seasonal, and newcomer workers.

Action to watch for: funding for multilingual outreach, stronger inspections, and penalties for employers who breach Yukon labour agreements.

Northern Health and Worker Protections
The transition to the Shäw Kwä’ą health authority must preserve pensions, employment stability, and local access to care. Yukoners expect commitments to keep community health centres open and to invest in local treatment capacity.

Action to watch for: written guarantees on pensions, staffing plans for rural clinics, and timelines to prevent service gaps.

Workers’ Compensation and Whistleblower Protections
Modernized WSCB regulations, circle of care supports for injured workers, more compassionate application of psychological injuries, and territorial whistleblower protections are essential to a fair system for injured and reporting workers.

Action to watch for: promises to reform WSCB systems on justice for workers, amending the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act to recognize chronic workplace stress, bullying, and harassment as compensable injuries, introducing confidential reporting channels, and expanding protections for whistleblowers.

Wildland Firefighter Safety
Yukon wildland firefighters face unequal protection compared to their structural counterparts. They lack presumptive cancer coverage, many are employed on casual contracts without job security or benefits, and the high threshold for psychological injury claims leaves mental health impacts unrecognized. These gaps create systemic inequities for workers doing some of the most dangerous jobs in the territory.

Action to watch for: commitments to presumptive coverage parity, better job security for seasonal staff, and funded mental health supports.

Training, Infrastructure, and a Worker Action Centre
Yukon’s labour system has structural gaps. Supports for vulnerable groups — including immigrant, young, and Indigenous workers — are fragmented and often focused on training or placement rather than helping workers navigate complaints, harassment, or wage theft.

Action to watch for: funding commitments, clear territorial oversight (such as Minister of Labour or a broader labour board), and partnerships with unions and Indigenous governments to deliver accessible worker services, investing in northern trades training and broadband so that all workers — especially those most at risk of exploitation — have fair access to protections and opportunities.

Reconciliation and Sustainable Development
How will your government ensure that mining and resource development in Yukon are carried out in ways that respect Indigenous rights, protect the environment, and prevent disasters like the Eagle Gold Mine contamination?

Action to Watch For: Commitments to co-management with First Nations, stronger mining accountability, increased royalties, and long-term funding for Indigenous Land Guardian programs.

Accessibility for All
Yukon’s Disability Act (2003) is outdated, limited in scope, and lacks enforceable accessibility standards. Unlike other provinces, Yukon has no binding timelines, no independent enforcement body, and no requirement for employers or service providers to proactively remove barriers.

Action to Watch For: Commitments to legislative review, creation of enforceable accessibility standards, recognition of invisible disabilities, and establishment of an independent commissioner or tribunal for compliance/complaints.

Share the fun and hold candidates accountable.

Take the card to a debate, a door-knock, or a coffee chat with a candidate. Post your progress, tag your friends, and send your completed cards to the Yukon Federation of Labour so we can track which candidates made concrete commitments on worker-centred priorities. Elections are better when voters are informed, engaged, and having a little fun while doing it.

The post Yukon Election Bingo! appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

Our first Throwback Thursday was posted June 5th, looking back at the first inaugural convention for the YFL 45 years ago! At the Yukon Federation of Labour’s founding convention, which took place on January 26th and 27th 1980. Delegates from unions across the territory attended in order to create the YFL that exists today.

The delegates of this convention passed resolutions aimed to fight for the right to refuse work, tax incentives for Northerners, establishing an alcohol treatment center and Indigenous representation.

They also elected their very first president, Casey McCabe who would work for the YFL until May 1981.

The Yukon Federation of Labour was chartered by the Canadian Labour Congress, leading to the YFL‘s founding convention. The charter can be seen amongst the convention delegates in one of the photos. The charter can still be found in the YFL’s office today.

Today’s Fun Fact: Did you know?
If your employer asks you to report to work, you’re entitled by law to be paid for at least two hours, even if you work less than that!

This comes from the Reporting Pay Order, made under the Employment Standards Act. Of course, like most rules, there are exceptions—for example, if your employer gives you reasonable notice not to come in.

For more information, please refer to the employment standards act which can be found under legislation on the Yukon government’s website or reach out to the employment standards office.

Tadiwa and Ivan are bringing these important facts to the attention of Yukon workers in French and English this summer.

Fun Fact Friday – Facebook post English

les vendredis du savez-vous Instagram French

Cet été, nous lançons une nouvelle série intitulée Les vendredis du saviez-vous ?, où nous partagerons des informations utiles pour les travailleurs et travailleuses du Yukon.

Alors, pour le saviez-vous d’aujourd’hui: Saviez-vous que? Si votre employeur vous demande de vous présenter au travail, vous avez droit, en vertu de la loi, à être payé(e) pendant au moins deux heures, même si vous travaillez moins que cela!

Cela découle de l’Ordonnance sur la rémunération minimale pour la déclaration au travail, prise en vertu de la Loi sur les normes d’emploi.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instragram, LinkedIn, X, or Youtube as well as subscribe to our website!

The post Throwback Thursdays & Fun Fact Fridays appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

For many healthcare professionals in Yukon, the establishment of the new Health Authority, Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon, is fraught with anxiety. Whispers of losing hard-earned pensions echo through hospital hallways and units, creating a profound sense of instability for those who have committed their careers to serving Yukoners. Despite assurances, concrete details about how existing pension plans, seniority, service changes or differences of benefits between employers (including those from the Yukon Government and Yukon Hospital Corporation) will be integrated remain elusive, leaving vital questions about their retirement and job security unanswered. This lack of clear communication and engagement with the workforce is not just an oversight; it’s a significant blow to morale.

This uncertainty comes at a time when Yukon’s healthcare system is already reeling from extreme staff shortages and widespread burnout. Yukon Federation of Labour President Teresa Acheson says, “Our nurses, doctors, paramedics, and support staff are stretched thin, working tirelessly under immense pressure. Many have already disengaged, feeling unheard and undervalued.” The Yukon Federation of Labour is increasingly hearing a disheartening sentiment: “healthcare is not a good field to go into…the environment in hospitals is very hard, toxic, and unsustainable...I’m never going back… I would never recommend anyone to work there.” This isn’t just anecdotal; it’s a symptom of a systemic problem where the very people delivering care feel mistreated and disrespected by the leadership and government charged with overseeing our healthcare systems.

Beyond the pressing issues of pay, benefits and uncertainty about employment status, the “cone of silence” is creating a profound sense of disengagement, lack of support, and a feeling that workers’ expertise and experiences are being ignored in decision-making processes. Many dedicated individuals, exhausted from years of demanding work, are questioning whether the current environment is sustainable for their careers or their well-being and choosing other paths.

The public, by and large, holds immense respect for healthcare workers. Yet, there’s a growing chasm between this public appreciation and the perceived internal disregard for these professionals. The frustration stems from a sense that decisions are being made for them, rather than with them combined with intense pressure and fear for speaking out. True progress in healthcare transformation can only happen when the invaluable insights and experiences of those on the ground are genuinely welcomed and integrated into the planning and implementation process.

The “Putting People First” report emphasized the need for a person-centered system. However, this focus must extend beyond just patients to include the people who provide that care. A healthy healthcare system requires a healthy workforce. “Without addressing the foundational concerns of our healthcare workers – their job security, their pensions, and their fundamental right to be engaged and respected,” continues President Acheson, “any ‘progress’ on paper risks being undermined by a disaffected and departing workforce.”

This is why it is absolutely critical for healthcare workers, past and present, to have a voice in shaping the future of Yukon’s healthcare. The new Health Authority needs diverse perspectives, including those with direct experience in patient care and system realities.

This is especially difficult because healthcare workers in the Yukon often find themselves in a unique dilemma. As both essential service providers and public sector workers, they face significant barriers to speaking out publicly. There’s a real and understandable concern that critical comments about the Yukon government or the Yukon Hospital Corporation could jeopardize their careers – past or present. Many current and retired professionals worry about potential repercussions, even legal action, for voicing their concerns openly. This chilling effect creates a significant gap between how the public perceives the system and the stark realities and frustrations felt by those working within it. To those who feel alone in their struggle, or who have been made to feel that the problems are “all in their head” because open discussion is discouraged, please know that your experiences are valid and you are not alone.

A Call to Action for Yukon’s Healthcare Workforce

The future of healthcare demands that we not only advocate for accessible and safe care for Yukoners but also for a desirable and respected healthy workplace. We recognize the immense courage it takes for healthcare workers, particularly those still in their careers, to speak out or take a visible role. We understand the legitimate concerns and very real barriers that can prevent individuals from actively intervening in public discourse. However, it is precisely because of these challenges that your unique perspectives are so desperately needed.

The new Health Authority, Shäw Kwä’ą / Health and Wellness Yukon, is actively recruiting for its initial board. This is a vital opportunity to influence the direction of our healthcare system from within, potentially in a way that provides a safer avenue for your valuable input. To those within healthcare, we are not asking you to “step up” without acknowledging the risks; instead, we urge you to consider applying to be on the board for the new Health Authority adding your expertise and insight. Your lived experience, your understanding of the challenges, and your vision for a sustainable and supportive healthcare environment are invaluable.

Find out more and apply here: https://healthandwellnessyukon.ca/board-recruitment

Furthermore, we encourage all Yukoners to visit Northern Health Care Matters. This platform highlights solutions and advocacy efforts from northern healthcare workers, emphasizing the need for governments to listen to their recommendations and work collaboratively to address the systemic issues plaguing our healthcare systems.

The transformation of Yukon’s healthcare system cannot succeed without the full and meaningful engagement of its workforce. It’s time to move beyond reports and headlines and truly put the people who deliver care first. Let your voice be heard.

The post There is no Future Healthcare without Workers appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.

This year, Canada’s unions are calling on decision-makers, support agencies and employers to take action against invisible workplace hazards and to support workers suffering from both visible and invisible work-related conditions.

Young workers, in particular, need to know that not all hazards are obvious. Workplace injuries and illnesses don’t always leave visible scars, but they can have lifelong impacts. We must ensure that all workers, especially those new to the workforce, are educated about these risks.  Every worker deserves to return home safely at the end of their shift. Keeping workers safe also means taking measures to prevent invisible illnesses and injuries, and safeguarding against unseen hazards.

In the Yukon, YEU and Local Y034 our Wildland firefighters, have been bringing attention to the invisible danger from exposure to wildfires.  Structural Firefighters have Presumptive Cancer Coverage in the Yukon — Wildland Firefighters Don’t. Yet British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia have Presumptive Cancer coverage for Wildland Firefighters.

“The wildfire environment contains Poly aromatic hydrocarbons, soot, Volatile organic compounds, small particulate matter, airborne heavy metals, diesel fumes, etc the list continues. These are all recognized carcinogens. The International Agency for Research on Cancer supports this. They consider Firefighting as a profession a carcinogen and do not draw a line between structural and wildland fire. “

Alex macphail, Wildland firefighter for over 10 years and President of Local Y034

Health and safety is about more than what we can see. Many workplace hazards and injuries are invisible, from exposure to harmful chemicals to the mental health toll of stressful or unsafe environments. This year, Canada’s unions are raising awareness of these unseen risks, advocating for education, enforcement, and preventive measures to protect workers from both visible and invisible dangers.

“It is important to acknowledge the impact that workplace injuries and fatalities have on families and communities. These events can cause deep and lasting pain, and we must work together to support those dealing with the loss of a worker and do better to prevent workplace related fatalities in the future.” 

Teresa Acheson, President Yukon Federation of Labour

Here in Yukon, the Workers Safety and Compensation Board have recorded 703 accepted claims, 377 lost-work time claims, and 2 confirmed worker fatality in 2024.  Additionally, it was after last year’s ceremony that WSCB also confirmed a worker fatality in 2023. 

“This is an important distinction for the public to remember.  These posted numbers only recognize what is reported and what is accepted by Compensation Boards as workplace injuries or fatalities,” says YFL President.  “The work of unions, federations of labour and Canadian Labour Congress show that there are others deeply affected by workplace injuries not reflected in their numbers, but still living with the impacts.”

As an example of workers lost ‘not in the numbers’, is Shaunna Mackenzie, a member of USW (United Steelworkers), mom of 2 children and grandmother, who was fired after Nineteen (19) years on the job with a clean record. The employer should have issued her a Performance Event (PE) where the employee would have had some retraining. Once completed they would have returned Shaunna to her full duties.

During the course of the grievance procedure and Mediation/Arbitration process, Shaunna was very stressed out about her job. She had contacted her union many times in frustration– wanting her job back. During the process of a written submission, Shaunna had a heart attack and passed away. USW states, “We are all positive that the stress that was endured due to her firing and had considerably attributed to her having the heart attack.”  

This year the Day of Mourning is also a federal election day.  We remind the public to Remember First. Honour Always.  Consider how your work is protected when you also go to the polls to vote. 

The post Yukon Remembers Fallen Workers and Calls for Action on Invisible Injuries appeared first on Yukon Federation of Labour.