Author: Stephanie Gomez

ATU Local 113 has and continues to be a strong advocate for protecting our workers from violence and assault on the job.

In March 2022, the TTC CEO Report found that the number of offences against TTC employees in Q3 2021 was 243 and in Q4 2021 was 208, which represents offences against employees of more than 2x per day.

These numbers are daunting, and it’s a reality many of our members have to face daily. No one should go to work in fear.

Today during the Toronto Transit Commission Board Meeting, a Motion was brought forward entitled ‘Working Together to Address Transit Worker Assaults’. The recommendations proposed can be found here. At a high-level ATU Local 113 proposes all levels of government work with the union to develop a national framework.

The Motion was tabled by Councillor Jaye Robinson and seconded by Councillor Jennifer McKelvie.

Our President, Marvin Alfred spoke to the Board. The 10 minute deputation included positive feedback, a Q&A, support from TTC Staff and Commissioners, and the successful passing of a Motion showing our efforts to get the TTC and the Commission to begin to address transit workers’ abuse. A video of the deputation can be found above.

Marvin Alfred said, in part, “TTC has acknowledged the incidents have been increasing throughout the pandemic with offences against employees doubling and those against customers nearly tripling. But what hasn’t been determined is why the assaults are increasing. I proposed the idea of a Motion to Councillor Robinson, as I felt the TTC could do more. I’m happy to report she agreed. So, we’re here with the beginning of a strategy to make our transit system even safer.”

Today, ATU Local 113 wishes a happy new year to the Tamil community as they embark upon new beginnings. We hope you are able to celebrate with your family, friends, and loved ones. Iniya Puthandu Nalvazhthukkal.

Please mark May 1 down in your calendars! ATU Local 113 is inviting all members and supporters to join us at Toronto Coach Terminal, 610 Bay Street to march on Queen’s Park for the 2022 May Day Rally.

Together with other union activists, we’ll fight for a better Ontario including against the privatization of public transit. See the poster below for details.

ATU Local 113’s thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this senseless attack in New York City.

Transit safety means safety for everyone – workers and riders. This horrific violence has no place on public transit.

Police identify ‘person of interest’ in New York City subway shooting | CBC News

Reanna Bourque is a hero. A few weeks ago, the brave and compassionate ATU Local 113 member saved someone’s life.

Like so many of our members, she went above and beyond for a Torontonian. Watch her powerful interview with Global News below.

Global News: ‘Heroic’ Toronto bus driver pulls over to save man’s life

ATU Local 113 joins the global union movement by standing in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and calls for an end to military aggression through a diplomatic solution.

We condemn any violence against civilians and call for an end to all armed conflict. We also call on all workers, government officials and leaders to join us by unequivocally condemning war in Ukraine and supporting the people impacted by the Russian invasion.

Many of our union brothers and sisters, including ATU Local 113 members here in Toronto, have friends and family impacted by this horrific conflict. For them this is personal and heartbreaking, and we offer all our support. Our thoughts are also with our brothers and sisters in the Ukrainian unions whose lives have been put at risk by this senseless and illegal war.

We have all heard and seen stories of courage, compassion, love, and solidarity as the affected communities come together to care for each other and protect the most vulnerable among them. Our response in Canada should be moved by the same generous spirit and be grounded in our common humanity.

In solidarity,

Marvin Alfred
President, ATU Local 113

Meet Nicole Huntley, who had to change her daily work routine because she was brutally hit from behind while waiting for the bus in uniform. Nicole continues to go to work despite the trauma and fear of being assaulted again. No one should ever fear for their safety because of the uniform they wear.

These are real people who have dedicated themselves to keeping Toronto moving. Daniel Medina explains the effects an assault in 2021 had on him. He spoke out to raise awareness. Assaults on transit workers must stop.

Behind every uniform is a human being. Assaults in the workplace affect transit workers’ everyday lives. No one should have to suffer from abuse or violent attacks for doing their job. In our recent press conference, ATU Local 113 member Anna Cohen shared her story.

As we begin Black History Month 2022, ATU Local 113 celebrates the success of previous Black leaders and continues to create opportunities for those of tomorrow.

We are committed to creating a more inclusive Union and invite all members to celebrate Black History Month!