The Kingston and District Labour Council organized its yearly parade and picnic on Labour Day, with speakers urging more support for workers in light of worries about tariffs, education funding, and community assistance.
Hundreds attended the picnic, which included food, activities, and speeches from local leaders like Ted Hsu.
The MPP for Kingston and the Islands spoke to the audience at Mc Burney Park regarding the challenges Ontarians are facing due to potential tariffs.
“I think we’re in a bit of a crisis situation right now… There are people who are losing their jobs right now because of the tariff war,” said Hsu.
Hsu urged the provincial government to step in to help prevent further job losses among workers.
“If we want to fight a war, we have to be united. People who are not so affected by the tariffs, we have to share the burden of those who are losing their jobs today, and the provincial government has a responsibility to work on this,” Hsu continued.
Lisa Lacaria, provincial first vice-president of Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association, echoed Hsu’s plea for solidarity while addressing those at the picnic.
She called on Premier Doug Ford to take action regarding what she referred to as cuts and underfunding in Ontario’s education system.
“We will continue to stand together, we will continue to speak out, and we will continue to fight for workers, for students, for public services, and for a better future for all,” said Lacaria.
“Our students always come first, but dedication from teachers alone cannot make up for the years of cuts and underfunding by this Ford government.”
Lacaria mentioned that Ontario schools have seen what she described as $6.5 billion in cumulative funding cuts since 2018.
“We are fighting for our members, but we are also fighting for our students, our schools, and our communities. We are standing up to the Ford government and saying that Ontario’s children deserve better,” Lacaria added.
John Di Paolo, president of United Way Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington, also highlighted the need for community support in Kingston.
Soon after Labour Day celebrations ended, United Way KFL& A announced an ambitious fundraising target of $4.25 million for this year’s campaign-an objective Di Paolo noted was driven by community needs.
“We’re about to launch our annual fundraising campaign later on this week. And we’re going to have a very ambitious goal that we have set this year. And we’re not doing this because we want an ambitious goal; we’re doing it because there’s a need in our community,” said Di Paolo.
“When we see true progress it’s when we work together-and respect each other while acknowledging everyone’s beliefs-that’s how we’ll come together so everyone can thrive.”
Janet Haymen, president of Kingston and District Labour Council expressed satisfaction seeing people celebrate despite recognizing there is room for improvement.
“I’m impressed with how many people came out today just to take a break and enjoy themselves,” said Haymen.
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