Dear Members,
Last week, ACTRA National launched a referendum following the submission of a member-led petition that was deemed constitutional. To help you make an informed decision, you can find links to the ACTRA National position, the National Webinar and the petitioners’ position.
It has taken me a few days to reflect on the range of views being expressed. ACTRA National has recommended a “No” vote, a message that was shared swiftly and emphatically. Meanwhile, we’ve also heard from members who are encouraging a “Yes” vote—or simply asking for more dialogue and clarity.
At this moment, my priority is you—the membership. We need to meet as a branch and have this conversation locally, where the real impact is felt. Importantly, we need to do it in person.
We’ve scheduled a Branch Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, June 3 from 6-8:30 p.m. I recognize this timing may not work for everyone, and for those who are unable to attend, I apologize. This decision was not taken lightly. But in this case, the vision is clear: to create space for respectful, face-to-face civic dialogue—one of the cornerstones of our union democracy.
Will we return to Zoom meetings? Absolutely. Virtual tools remain vital for accessibility and inclusion. But given the nature of this conversation, we’re going back to basics. We hope it creates the space for connection, clarity and community.
ACTRA Toronto Council invites you to join us on Tuesday, June 3 from 6-8:30 p.m.
Meeting Agenda (Subject to Adjustment):
6:00 p.m. – Welcome & Introductions
6:15 p.m. – Chair’s Report from President Kate Ziegler
6:35 p.m. – Presentation from Petitioners
6:45 p.m. – Short Break
7:00 p.m. – Q&A
8:15 p.m. – Meeting Wrap-Up and Next Steps
No matter where you stand on the referendum, we are all members—and we are stronger together. This meeting is an opportunity to hold space for differing views, focus on the substance of the issues at hand, and engage in respectful, constructive dialogue. Let’s come together and talk it out.
In solidarity,
Kate Ziegler
ACTRA Toronto President