The recent announcement of Fred Hahn stepping down as President of CUPE Ontario has brought
a sense of relief to many Jewish members. For years, we have watched as his leadership failed to
demonstrate genuine equality for all, repeatedly overlooking the concerns and lived experiences
of Jewish members and refusing attempts to engage in true learning. We are hopeful this next
chapter will break from the old leaders and their dismissive attitudes and bring in a strong leader
who truly wants to move forward in a supportive and united way.
Fred talks about his many fights against bullies and those who use their power to intimidate,
however, for many of us, this describes his leadership style. For us, the bully is in fact Fred Hahn.
While there have been efforts to work with him, he has repeatedly refused to even try to understand
the feelings of those who do not agree with him and seems to take every opportunity to use his
platform to perpetuate his beliefs.
Even in his resignation statement, Fred Hahn perpetuated the same divisive approach, making
divisive comments he knew would hurt some members—despite having previously promised
never to do so knowingly. This pattern of behavior underscores the urgent need for a new leader
who embraces unity and respect, and who will put the real needs of all union members first.
Despite frequent claims of solidarity and respect, Hahn’s statements often alienated and hurt
Jewish members. His refusal to address our concerns and his persistence in supporting ideologies
that not only exclude us but perpetuate hate against us have deepened the divisions for all members
within the union, instead of fostering unity. It is time for CUPE Ontario to return to the
fundamentals of unionism: negotiating strong collective agreements, ensuring fair and equitable
treatment for everyone, and steering clear of geopolitics and divisive ideological battles. The
union’s strength lies in its commitment to representing all members, regardless of their background
or beliefs.
As the lead plaintiff in the ongoing human rights case against Fred Hahn and CUPE Ontario for
discrimination of Jewish members, we pledge to continue fighting for the fair treatment and respect
we deserve and that is afforded to others. The time for change—is long overdue. We should not
have to fight to be heard, it is time for CUPE Ontario to engage in real conversation and work
towards the unity and solidarity it purports to be at its core. Solidarity cannot be selective; it must
encompass all, including Jewish members who have too often been sidelined. After losing his
position as Vice President a few months ago, the timing of Hahn’s departure might be politically
motivated, however, the sense of relief among Jewish members is genuine. CUPE Ontario must
now focus on being a truly democratic union dedicated to representing all workers and creating an
environment where every member is valued and belongs. This means genuinely listening to those
who have been excluded and addressing the harm caused by Fred Hahn’s leadership.