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Labour, pride groups call on City of Saskatoon to reinstate fired union leader – allegedly over gender-neutral language

Labour and pride groups are calling on the City of Saskatoon to reinstate a union leader that was allegedly fired over the use of gender-neutral language.

Jackie Morley, a city employee with 21 years’ service who was also the president of the Saskatoon Civic Middle Management Association, IFPTE, Local 222, was terminated “without due process,” according to a press release issued by IFPTE.

“Considering the City’s extensive experience in labour relations, and its daily interactions with a large multi-unionized workforce, it is disappointing to see a union president dismissed without affording her the due process she deserved,” said Lori Johb, President of the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour.

Morley, a “proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, has been a tireless advocate for fostering safe and inclusive work environments. During her tenure at the City, she championed the use of gender-neutral language, referring to individuals and colleagues as ‘humans.’ Regrettably, the City took exception with the terminology and demanded she sign a document agreeing to refrain from using the term. Ms. Morley refused and was terminated the following day,” the press release stated.

Andrew Matheson, president of the Saskatchewan Pride Network, said it was disheartening to see the mayor condone discriminatory practices at the city.

“We find ourselves in a climate where we are witnessing a troubling backlash against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community,” said Matheson.

Community and labour allies are planning to hold a press conference at the United Steelworkers’ hall on November 9 to launch a public campaign calling for Morley’s reinstatement and to raise awareness of the unfair and discriminatory targeting of SCMMA represented employees, it said.