Our Statement on Lennox & Addington Interval House Strike

Violence against women is a significant problem in Canada. In 2018, Statistics Canada survey research found that more than 4 in 10 women have experienced intimate partner violence. In Eastern Ontario specifically, a CBC investigation found that two of every three women seeking refuge at violence against women shelters were turned away due to lack of available space.

Workers at violence against women shelters are under extreme stress as the need for service far outweighs available resources. Shelters and transition houses are currently operating at maximum capacity, with few affordable housing options available for women to transition into. Under these conditions, workers at violence against women shelters need to be better supported by their employers to ensure vulnerable women and children receive the best service.

This is what workers at Lennox and Addington Interval House (LAIH) are fighting for. Workers at Lennox and Addington Interval House have been on strike since October 29, 2021. Their demands—including improved staffing levels, clear health and safety guidelines, and better union representation—would directly improve daily operations at LAIH. Yet the employer refuses to return to the table to negotiate.

Workers at LAIH tirelessly strive to ensure the rights of women and children are met, including the right to housing. With this, members of the Kingston Union of Tenants stand in solidarity with the workers at LAIH.

Signed,

The Katarokwi Union of Tenants