This year's Lecture was delivered via Zoom on October 20th from 1-2pm EDT honouring renowned trade union leader Leo Gerard.

Entitled "My fight for democracy: Reflections on 50 years of union activism", the event also featured a conversation between Leo Gerard and Ausma Malik. 

About Leo Gerard

One of the most influential labour advocates in modern history, Leo’s career as a strong voice for working people began on the shop floor of the Inco nickel smelter in Sudbury and recently concluded with his retirement as the long-time International President of the United Steelworkers, the largest private sector union in North America. He also held a number of significant positions in the international labour movement including Vice President of the AFL-CIO and as Co-Founder of Workers Uniting – The Global Union.

About Ausma Malik

The first hijab-wearing Muslim woman elected to public office in Canada, Ausma Malik is known for staring down hate and inspiring hope for racial justice, economic reconstruction, and democratic renewal. On doorsteps, at the mic, and in digital spaces, Ausma skilfully flips the narrative from austerity to solidarity with heart and humour. Currently the Atkinson Foundation’s Director of Advocacy and Organizing, she collaborates with community organizers and policy innovators to advocate for decent work and a fair economy. Ausma is also a member of the advisory committee for Ryerson University’s Centre for Labour-Management Relations, and the host of Just Work It -- Atkinson’s podcast for millennial organizers. From 2014 to 2018, she served as a Trustee elected to the Toronto District School Board.

About the Ellen Meiksins Wood Prize & Lecture 

In January 2016, the Broadbent Institute lost our dear friend and inspiration Professor Ellen Meiksins Wood. The Institute founded the annual Ellen Meiksins Wood Prize & Lecture to honour Ellen’s legacy as an internationally renowned scholar and to bring her work to new generations of Canadians.  At this troubling political moment, Ellen's belief that democracy means “nothing more nor less than people’s power, or even the power of the common people or the poor” is more relevant than ever.

WHEN:
Tuesday, October 20
1-2pm EDT 

WHERE:
Zoom (RSVP below for link)