Support Staff at Queen’s University Face Layoffs as Thrive Week Celebrates a Decade of “Thriving Together”
For Immediate Release
Kingston, ON, [Nov 13, 2024] — Local 2010 of the United Steelworkers union (USW) is voicing serious concerns about layoffs and job restructures announced last week at Queen’s University. These workforce reductions were initiated during the university’s ‘Thrive Week’ (November 4-8), an annual event celebrating wellness and mental health on campus. While the university marked ten years of “thriving together,” some Local 2010 members faced a starkly different reality as their roles were put at risk.
The timing of this decision has raised questions for Steelworkers about the university’s commitment to supporting staff wellness. While Thrive Week workshops and events took place, support staff impacted by layoffs and restructures faced uncertainty about their future and livelihoods.
Local 2010 is actively working to support its members impacted by these staffing decisions, aiming to avoid layoffs through alternative solutions explored with the university. Although we cannot disclose specific employment details, union leadership has emphasized to the university that job security is a cornerstone of workplace wellness.
“Real mental health support in the workplace begins with the stability and security of employment,” said Kelly Orser, President of USW Local 2010. “Queen’s has an opportunity to make wellness a reality for its staff by protecting the jobs that enable research, teaching, and other essential university functions to flourish.”
Local 2010 urges the employer to prioritize transparency and stability during this time—essential elements for fostering true community well-being. Supporting the livelihood of the staff who sustain campus life is a vital way to demonstrate a commitment to authentic, lasting wellness.
About USW Local 2010
USW Local 2010 represents approximately 1,400 dedicated support staff at Queen’s University, advocating for fair treatment, job security, and a respectful work environment for all members. We work tirelessly to protect the well-being of our members and to ensure that Queen’s University continues to be a place everyone can thrive.
For media inquiries, please contact: communications@usw2010.ca
