Require Toronto umpire agencies to have reasonable layoff causes
The Issue
About Boyd
Boyd Hayward has always worn his love for baseball on his sleeve. As a father of two, he created a Slo-Pitch team with his family, playing right alongside his kids to teach them the game he cherished. His dedication didn't stop when his children grew up and started their own families; instead, it evolved. Boyd became an umpire, officiating hundreds of games each season for nearly 40 years with unwavering authority and empathy. However, despite his dedication and exemplary service, Boyd's umpiring agency has informed him that he cannot continue his beloved role despite continued mental and physical competence simply because he has turned 80.
Why Sign
Age discrimination is a pressing issue that must be addressed, especially within organizations that pride themselves on community values and inclusivity, like Toronto's umpire agencies. While safety and efficiency are important, dismissing individuals based solely on age without a valid reason undermines decades of service, passion, and community involvement. Experienced umpires like Boyd bring immense value to the game through their wisdom, passion, and understanding of baseball's essence.
Umpire agencies across Toronto should be required to provide reasonable and justifiable causes for laying off elderly umpires rather than resorting to age as the sole criterion. This change would ensure that decisions are based on merit, capability, and actual performance, rather than unfounded age-related assumptions.
Implementing such a policy can help maintain diversity, ensure fairness, and acknowledge the contributions of all age groups. By holding umpire agencies accountable for their employment practices, we stand up for equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of age.
Join us in calling for Toronto umpire agencies to embrace fair labor practices by requiring valid cause for the dismissal of elderly umpires. Let's honor Boyd's legacy and the legacy of countless others who share his passion and commitment to baseball. Please sign this petition to support equality and respect for experienced umpires in our community.
73
The Issue
About Boyd
Boyd Hayward has always worn his love for baseball on his sleeve. As a father of two, he created a Slo-Pitch team with his family, playing right alongside his kids to teach them the game he cherished. His dedication didn't stop when his children grew up and started their own families; instead, it evolved. Boyd became an umpire, officiating hundreds of games each season for nearly 40 years with unwavering authority and empathy. However, despite his dedication and exemplary service, Boyd's umpiring agency has informed him that he cannot continue his beloved role despite continued mental and physical competence simply because he has turned 80.
Why Sign
Age discrimination is a pressing issue that must be addressed, especially within organizations that pride themselves on community values and inclusivity, like Toronto's umpire agencies. While safety and efficiency are important, dismissing individuals based solely on age without a valid reason undermines decades of service, passion, and community involvement. Experienced umpires like Boyd bring immense value to the game through their wisdom, passion, and understanding of baseball's essence.
Umpire agencies across Toronto should be required to provide reasonable and justifiable causes for laying off elderly umpires rather than resorting to age as the sole criterion. This change would ensure that decisions are based on merit, capability, and actual performance, rather than unfounded age-related assumptions.
Implementing such a policy can help maintain diversity, ensure fairness, and acknowledge the contributions of all age groups. By holding umpire agencies accountable for their employment practices, we stand up for equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of age.
Join us in calling for Toronto umpire agencies to embrace fair labor practices by requiring valid cause for the dismissal of elderly umpires. Let's honor Boyd's legacy and the legacy of countless others who share his passion and commitment to baseball. Please sign this petition to support equality and respect for experienced umpires in our community.
Supporter Voices
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on July 18, 2026