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New leadership wins with campaigns focused on change, renewal and inclusion.
Toronto (19 April 2022) — JP Hornick has been elected as the new President of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO/NUPGE) marking the first change in the union’s presidency in 15 years.
New President wins with campaign focused on change, renewal and inclusion
Hornick is the Coordinator of the School of Labour at George Brown College, a long-time OPSEU/SEFPO leader and a women’s rights, equity, LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS activist. She ran for president on a platform of change, deep renewal, and building a bigger and more inclusive union.
“I am confident that we can build a bigger and more inclusive tent that engages all members and renews our union,” said Hornick. “I will work for a transparent and truly democratic union — where equity is a practice and not a buzzword or performance, and where everyone’s voices are heard and contributions valued.”
Hornick pledges to strengthen connections with social justice movements
Hornick will succeed Warren (Smokey) Thomas, the union’s longest-running President, who held the position since 2007. Under her leadership, Hornick plans to foster connections within the union and strengthen relationships with social justice movements across Ontario.
“I know the power of the labour movement is in working with social justice movements for deep change,” added Hornick. “That’s when we are at our most powerful — when we are part of a bigger struggle for justice.”
Nancekivell elected First Vice-President/Treasurer
Laurie Nancekivell has been elected as OPSEU/SEFPO’s First Vice-President/Treasurer and will serve alongside Hornick. Nancekivell, a Child and Youth Worker by trade and Director’s College graduate, has served on OPSEU/SEFPO’s Executive Board for 10 years.
“As OPSEU/SEFPO First Vice-President, I will ensure our union’s environment is one where diverse thoughts and opinions can be shared freely,” said Nancekivell. “And as Treasurer, I will serve our members with integrity and transparency.”
Brown thanks Thomas for decades of service
"I want to extend our congratulations to our long-time friend, Smokey Thomas, on a well-earned retirement," said Larry Brown, NUPGE President. "Your leadership, not only at the provincial level, but around the Board table, has been deeply appreciated."
"You spent your life fighting for economic equality and social justice — ensuring that not only workers' voices were heard, but also those of the most vulnerable in our communities. Your determination and passion helped grow our union at the provincial and national level," said Brown. "The words "thank you," don't seem to be enough, but thank you for your service."
NUPGE welcomes new leadership
"I want to congratulate JP and Laurie on their elections," said Bert Blundon, NUPGE Secretary-Treasurer, who attended the OPSEU/SEFPO/NUPGE Convention. "We look forward to you bringing your fresh insights and energy to the National Union, and to our Executive Board."