It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of OSSTF/FEESO’s Associate General Secretary, Joel Duff. This is an unimaginable loss to our Federation, as Joel represented the very best of us.

Joel joined OSSTF/FEESO in August 2023 as a dedicated labour activist committed to protecting public education. Joel spent the entire 21st century in service of the broader labour movement in a wide range of elected and staff roles. These included serving as the Ontario Organizer for the Canadian Federation of Students, Communications Director for the Ontario Federation of Labour, Executive Political Assistant to the President of the Canadian Labour Congress, and the Associate Executive Director of the Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations.

Joel came to OSSTF/FEESO with a clear vision: to defend and strengthen public education. He joined a union that had long been at the forefront of change but also stood on the cusp of transformation. With conviction and principle, he set out to strengthen the Federation’s organizing and mobilizing strategy for the challenges ahead.

Joel reflected the best qualities of a deeply committed colleague, comrade, and friend. He took the time to understand people and what made them unique, and believed that every person, regardless of their title or role, played a part in building a movement and he made that belief felt. Joel leaves a lasting impact on many across the country, within the labour movement and beyond. He will be remembered with great affection by his neighbours, coworkers, friends, allies, and comrades. OSSTF/FEESO is committed to continuing his work in fighting for a just society for students and workers alike.

We extend our sincere condolences to his partner, Lauren, their two children, and all his loved ones.