President’s Message
June 19, 2025
Dear members,
The ACTRA National Referendum closes this Friday, June 20 at 12:00 p.m. ET.
As expected, ACTRA Toronto Councillors have received numerous messages in recent days from members sharing their view on the referendum and raising any outstanding questions. Since this is a member-led referendum, we have refrained from advocating for a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote. We believe every member has both the right, and the responsibility, to make an informed decision based on the available information.
That said, ACTRA National Council has recommended a ‘no’ vote. That recommendation follows much discussion about the legal, operational, and financial implications of the proposed changes to Article Six. A National town hall was held, and the follow-up information kit can be found here.
At ACTRA Toronto, we hosted an in-person town hall on Tuesday, June 3. We invited ACTRA National Treasurer and fellow Toronto Councillor, Theresa Tova, to share her perspective, and welcomed the petitioners to present theirs. The discussion was rich and productive. ACTRA Toronto is currently reviewing the ideas and suggestions raised and is working to implement what we can as quickly and effectively as possible. The minutes from that meeting are available here.
Here are a few key points that have stood out during the voting period:
- ACTRA National prepares financial records for 7 regional branches that lack the infrastructure of ACTRA Toronto. These branches rely on National’s stewardship. This support role presents a significant operational challenge if the referendum passes.
- Privacy is protected by law. Both ACTRA Toronto and ACTRA National must comply with federal privacy legislation under the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). Our governing documents cannot override this. Rest assured, no personally identifying information will appear in any financial reports—regardless of the outcome of the referendum.
- Implementation matters. Should the referendum pass, ACTRA Toronto will make the necessary adjustments. However, there will be growing pains and some services may shift as we adapt. We must develop solutions that are fiscally responsible and staff supported.
ACTRA Toronto remains committed to strengthening financial transparency and accountability. Some steps already underway include:
- Treasurer Talks: Direct conversations between members, councillors, and finance staff to clarify our financial picture.
- National By-law Proposals: Initiatives aimed at stabilizing finances and improve information sharing across branches.
- A Member-led Dues Reform Process: A collaborative effort to revisit and modernize our dues structure.
Members determine how their union’s finances are reported, managed and accounted for. If you believe our current systems meet those needs, vote ‘no.’
Voting no does not absolve your elected leaders of working toward governance objectives.
If you believe the Article Six reforms are necessary, voting ‘yes’ is a valid expression of that view. Seeking greater transparency is a reasonable goal. While it may present challenges, it also offers opportunities to develop policies that support staff, inform members, and contribute to sustainable solutions.
As union members, it’s important to vote, to ask tough questions and to seek information from your peers. Open conversations about our financial health is a good thing.
Whatever the outcome of this referendum, we will continue to honour our fiduciary responsibility—protecting sensitive information while equipping members with the tools to meaningfully engage in the future of their union.
In solidarity,
Kate Ziegler
President, ACTRA Toronto
Paul Constable
Treasurer, ACTRA Toronto