Celebrating our achievements, standing ready for 2026

Dear UFCW Family,

As we reflect on the past year, we are reminded of the strength, resilience, and unity that define our union. Together, we navigated major challenges, celebrated historic victories, and continued to push for a fairer, more equitable Canada for all workers.

In 2025, Milton Jones was elected International President, bringing renewed energy and vision to our global movement. Former National President Shawn Haggerty continues his lifelong service to workers as the newly elected International Secretary-Treasurer. And I am deeply honoured to serve as your National President, working alongside our outstanding local unions across the country as we carry forward UFCW Canada’s proud legacy of advocacy, solidarity, and growth.

Throughout 2025, UFCW members made history from coast to coast. Victoria Uber drivers secured a historic first union certification, and farm workers at Highline Mushrooms reached a groundbreaking, industry-leading agreement that strengthens protections and raises standards across agriculture sector.

In November, we hosted our second Social Partner Forum—an important space that brings together unions, employers, and government to advance decent work across Canada. Our union also continued to champion migrant worker rights, fighting for program reforms and expanding supports across the country.

Our commitment to reconciliation remains unwavering. This year, UFCW Canada and Moccasin Identifier unveiled Return of the Sacred—a powerful new mural by Anishnawbe artist Philip Cote—now permanently installed at our national headquarters as a reminder of our shared responsibility to honour Indigenous rights, treaties, and histories.

Politically, 2025 was a year where UFCW activists showed unwavering commitment to strengthening our democracy. During the federal election, members across the country were out in full force—mobilizing their communities, supporting Get-Out-the-Vote efforts, and ensuring the voices of working people were heard at the ballot box. Beyond election day, UFCW members continued meeting with their elected officials at all levels of government, advocating for the issues that matter most to them and to the communities where they live and work: affordability, stronger labour protections, safer workplaces, and nation-building public infrastructure. Their dedication and advocacy continue to shape a Canada where workers and their families can thrive.

UFCW Canada continues to stand up for the most vulnerable. Through our Migrant Member Support Program, we are helping migrant food workers navigate complex pathways to permanent residency, assisting members who may qualify for Provincial Nominee Programs that recognize the skills, experience, and essential contributions migrant workers bring to local economies. As these pathways narrow, we are leading the effort to expand permanent residency opportunities for migrant food workers through our national Migrant Food Workers Deserve Permanent Residency: Pathways Now! campaign, creating more pathway opportunities so more migrant food workers can build secure, stable futures in Canada.

As we close the year, we proudly mark another milestone: 40 years of partnership between UFCW Canada and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada—a relationship that has raised millions and brought hope to families nationwide.

As we look toward 2026, our resolve has never been stronger. We will continue championing Canadian workers, supporting Canadian businesses, and building a future rooted in fairness, respect, and opportunity for all.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and joyful holiday season, and a strong start to the New Year.

In solidarity,
Barry Sawyer
National President, UFCW Canada