Media Advisory – Workers first: The CLC hosts a forum with NDP leadership candidates

October 16, 2025

OTTAWA — On Wednesday, October 22, the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) will host a worker-first forum with official NDP leadership candidates, a sanctioned leadership race event officially recognized by Canada’s NDP.

The forum will bring together Avi Lewis, Heather McPherson, Rob Ashton, Tanille Johnston, and Tony McQuail for a series of moderated discussions focused on their vision and leadership approach for Canada’s NDP.

Moderated by CLC President Bea Bruske, each candidate will have the opportunity to speak for ten minutes, offering voters and workers an opportunity to hear, directly and in detail, how the next NDP leader plans to deliver real results for working people.

“Workers built this party, and Canada’s unions are here to make sure it stays focused on delivering for them. This forum is about putting working people at the heart of the leadership conversation.” – Bea Bruske, CLC President

WHAT:
Worker-First Forum with NDP Leadership Candidates

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 22, 2025 – 6:00 to 7:00 PM ET (Doors open: 5:30 PM ET)

WHERE:
The Westin Ottawa – Twenty Two Room (11 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa) Or Via Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83681751548?pwd=C5emRbJlJRWlvdNrinIshF0Hb2dqxs.1)
MEDIA RSVP:
Please send an email to media@clcctc.ca with your full name and outlet affiliation.

WHO:

Moderator
Bea Bruske – President, Canadian Labour Congress

NDP Leadership Candidates
Avi Lewis – Journalist, Activist, Associate Professor
Heather McPherson – NDP MP
Rob Ashton – President, International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU)
Tanille Johnston – Director of Community Programs with the First Nations Health Authority, City Councillor in Campbell River.
Tony McQuail – Huron County organic farmer

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To arrange an interview, please contact:
CLC Media Relations
media@clcctc.ca
613-526-7426

NT4