LIUNA Local 183 celebrates its retirees and reinforces the spirit of family

Photos: Adriana Paparella On July 10, LIUNA Local 183 celebrated its traditional Retirees’ Day, bringing together thousands of retired members and their families at Downsview Park. The event was ...

Photos: Adriana Paparella On July 10, LIUNA Local 183 celebrated its traditional Retirees’ Day, bringing together thousands of retired members and their families at Downsview Park. The event was marked by fellowship, entertainment, and recognition of those who contributed to the growth and strengthening of the union over the decades. The celebration marked the beginning of the Annual Family Reunion, held on July 11 and 12, reinforcing the bonds between generations and the sense of community within LIUNA Local 183.

Throughout the festivities, participants enjoyed live music, games, food, activities for all ages, and the highly anticipated draw for new vehicles, among other prizes. With more than 11,000 retired members, LIUNA Local 183 reaffirmed its commitment to those who helped build the organization. Retirees’ Day symbolizes recognition, respect, and the continuation of the bond with the union family, which continues to support its members through benefits, wellness programs, and social activities throughout the year.

More than just a celebration, Retirees’ Day 2026 once again stood as a heartfelt tribute to the dedication, hard work, and legacy of thousands of men and women who continue to be an essential part of the history and strength of LIUNA Local 183. The leader of LIUNA Local 183, Jack Oliveira, highlighted Retirees’ Day as one of the most meaningful moments on the union’s calendar, as it represents an opportunity to honour those who helped build the organization’s foundations. During the ceremony, Oliveira expressed his appreciation to retirees for their years of dedication, effort, and sacrifice throughout their careers, while also emphasizing the essential role of families, particularly the wives who supported workers through decades of demanding professional lives.

“We must recognize not only our retirees, but also their wives — both those who are here today and those who are no longer with us,” he stated. The union leader reinforced that LIUNA Local 183 remains committed to supporting its members at every stage of life, expressing gratitude to all retirees for their contributions to building and strengthening the organization. Also attending the event was Joseph Mancinelli, International Vice President and Regional Manager for Central and Eastern Canada of the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), who highlighted the importance of unity among workers and the fundamental role of the union in defending their interests.

In his remarks, Mancinelli praised the collective work carried out by members and union leadership, thanking everyone for their commitment to building a strong support structure for workers. He also emphasized the importance of the organization’s pension plans, which he described as an essential guarantee of greater financial stability for workers and their families, complementing existing public benefits. The Portuguese representation at the event was led by Graça Patrício, Executive Secretary of UGT Portugal and President of UGT Bragança, who highlighted the strong unity and closeness demonstrated by the labour movement in Canada.

The union leader expressed her surprise at the size and organization of LIUNA Local 183, emphasizing the continuous support provided to workers. For Graça Patrício, the experience observed in Canada represents an example of union mobilization that could inspire new practices within the Portuguese labour movement. She also expressed pride in the contribution of Portuguese people and Portuguese descendants in Canada, recognizing the prominent role they play in building and developing the community.

Manuel da Costa, a member of the LIUNA Retirees Committee, also emphasized the importance of union organization in creating benefits and ensuring greater security for workers and their families. During the event, he recalled the efforts of previous generations of workers who fought and contributed to building the conditions currently enjoyed by members. According to him, retirees played a decisive role in developing this support structure.

Manuel da Costa also delivered a message to younger generations, encouraging workers to join LIUNA, as he believes the union represents not only economic benefits, but also protection, stability, and security throughout their entire professional lives. For João Rocha, a retired worker, the dedication of the union organization profoundly impacted his life and that of his family. Emotionally, he highlighted the importance of unity among workers and the support provided by LIUNA.

“It is very good for us; it is very good for the family. Unity is very important,” he said. Jack Oliveira honoured for dedication, leadership, and community spirit Portuguese-Canadian union leader Jack Oliveira was honoured with the Key to the City of Toronto, the highest distinction awarded by the municipality, in a ceremony presided over by Mayor Olivia Chow.

The presentation took place during LIUNA Local 183’s traditional Retirees’ Day at Downsview Park, in front of hundreds of union members. When announcing the honour, Olivia Chow highlighted the impact of Jack Oliveira’s work over several decades in defending workers’ rights and strengthening communities across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). “Jack Oliveira’s journey represents the dedication, leadership, and community spirit that help make Toronto a stronger city,” said the mayor, also emphasizing his role in supporting working families and building more inclusive communities.

Born in Pardelhas, in the municipality of Murtosa, Aveiro District, Portugal, Jack Oliveira was born on July 3, 1960, and immigrated to Canada in 1972. Years later, he began his career in the construction industry and, in 1984, became a member of LIUNA Local 183, the union where he would eventually serve as Business Manager. Under his leadership, LIUNA Local 183 became the largest construction local union in North America, currently representing more than 70,000 workers.

Throughout this journey, Oliveira became known for advocating for better working conditions, workplace safety, and labour rights. Beyond his union activities, Oliveira promoted several programs supporting working families, new immigrants, and communities facing greater challenges. Upon receiving the honour, the union leader said he felt “deeply honoured” and dedicated the recognition to thousands of union members.

“I accept this honour on behalf of the workers of LIUNA Local 183, union leaders, and all community partners who, over the years, have worked together to improve the lives of thousands of families,” he stated. Jack Oliveira added that receiving the Key to the City reinforces his commitment to continuing to defend workers and contribute to a Toronto that is “more fair and inclusive.” The Key to the City is the highest distinction granted by Toronto City Council and is awarded to individuals or organizations whose contributions have had an exceptional impact on the civic life of the city.

Romulo M. Avila/MS The content on the Milénio Stadium website is automatically translated using Google Translate.