Dear Premier Ford and Minister Lecce,

Re: Keeping Students in Class Act, 2022 and related labour negotiations

We share your desire to keep our kids in school. As parents of school aged children we know how invaluable Ontario’s public school system is. 

We understand that it’s tough to deal with labour negotiations and we understand that you have multiple interests to keep in mind, but there are some bright lines that you – as elected representatives of the people of Ontario – should not cross in your efforts to represent us Ontarians. You’ve crossed those bright lines by invoking the notwithstanding clause. And you’ve crossed them by threatening ridiculous penalties on the workers who are seeking better pay and working conditions (a fine of $4,000 per day is more than members of this group earn on average per month – it is downright mean, intimidating, and abusive).

Yes, we want our kids back in school but not at the expense of our democracy and not by bullying. We need you – our elected officials – to uphold principles of democracy and civility above all others. What kind of a society and economy will our children have if you – as the leaders of our Province – trample the very principles that are so fundamental to the life that we enjoy here in Ontario? 

We call on the Government of Ontario to repeal the Keeping Students in Class Act, 2022 and to return to the bargaining table as soon as possible – keeping in mind our democracy and keeping in mind our economy that relies on the critical functions that these essential workers carry out day in and day out.