Honouring Black Canadian Workers

The Struggles and Triumphs of Black Workers in Canada

Black workers in Canada have historically faced numerous challenges, including discrimination, wage disparity, job segregation, and exclusion from certain trade unions. Many were relegated to low-paying and dangerous jobs in industries such as railway work, domestic service, and manufacturing. Despite these barriers, Black workers organized, unionized, and fought for better working conditions.

One of the most notable instances of Black labour activism was the struggle of Black railway porters in the early 20th century. The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) became the first Black-led trade union in North America. Under the leadership of Stanley Grizzle, a prominent labour activist and civil rights advocate, the BSCP fought against workplace discrimination and secured better wages and conditions for Black railway workers. Their efforts not only improved the lives of Black railway porters but also paved the way for broader civil rights advancements in Canada.

Pioneering Black Labour Leaders in Canada

Several Black labour leaders have made a lasting impact on Canada’s workforce and social justice movements. Here are just a few!

Stanley Grizzle (1918–2016)

Grizzle was a trailblazer in Canada’s labour movement, advocating for fair treatment and equal pay for Black railway porters. His activism extended beyond the workplace, as he played a key role in advancing civil rights in Canada, eventually becoming a judge with the Ontario Court of Justice.

Bromley Armstrong (1926–2018)

Another significant figure in Canada’s labour movement, Bromley Armstrong was an activist who worked tirelessly to challenge workplace discrimination and racial segregation. He helped organize human rights protests and played a major role in securing anti-discrimination laws in Ontario.

Dionne Brand (born 1953)

A celebrated poet and activist, Dionne Brand has also been a powerful voice for workers’ rights and racial justice in Canada. Her advocacy work has intersected with feminism, workers’ struggles, and anti-racist movements, emphasizing the importance of addressing intersectionality in labour activism.

The Legacy and Continued Fight for Equality

Black labour leaders have contributed immensely to Canada’s progress in workers’ rights and racial justice. Their efforts have led to significant victories, including better labour laws, stronger unions, and greater inclusivity in the workplace. However, challenges remain, as Black workers still experience wage gaps, discrimination, and underrepresentation in leadership roles.

Today, organizations like the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU-Canada Chapter) continue the work of past leaders by advocating for fair employment policies, diversity in leadership, and economic justice. Their ongoing fight ensures that Black voices remain central in the labour movement.

Unions Advance Racial Justice & Fight Inequity

Black labour leaders in Canada have shaped the labour movement by fighting for dignity, fair wages, and equal treatment. Their contributions have strengthened the rights of all workers while advancing racial justice. The Camosun College Faculty Association recognizes and celebrates the achievements of countless Black labour activists who tirelessly fought for and are still fighting for equal rights during Black History Month.

In the wake of the resurgence of racism, the rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) hiring initiatives threatens the progress that Black labour activists have fought for in Canada. Rising fascism and systemic discrimination endanger fair workplaces, workers’ rights, and economic justice. Black labour leaders like Stanley Grizzle and Bromley Armstrong challenged racist policies, paving the way for equity in employment. Without continued resistance, hard-won gains risk being dismantled, pushing Black and other racialized workers back into systemic exclusion. Upholding their legacy requires that we actively fight racism and defend DEI policies to ensure social justice remains a defining characteristic of the labour movement.

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If you’d like to learn more about Labour History be sure to check out https://www.labourheritagecentre.ca/