In Oshawa, Ontario, the General Motors (GM) Assembly Complex stands as a testament to the city’s rich automotive heritage. Home to Unifor Local 222, the plant has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over its future, prompting swift and determined responses from union leadership and workers alike.

Emergency Meeting at Unifor Local 222

On the morning of March 27, 2025, workers gathered at the union hall for an emergency meeting called by Unifor Local 222 President Jeff Gray. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of anxiety and defiance, as employees donned T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan “elbows up,” symbolizing their readiness to confront challenges head-on.

Leadership’s Commitment to Protecting Jobs

Jeff Gray, a lifelong resident of Oshawa and a 21-year veteran of the GM plant, addressed the gathering with unwavering resolve. “Here in Canada, these are our jobs. And we’re not going to let them go anywhere,” he declared. “We’re ready to fight. End of story, not one piece of equipment is leaving Ontario,” Gray emphasized, underscoring the union’s commitment to safeguarding local employment.

Impact on the Local Supply Chain

The potential closure of the GM Oshawa plant would have far-reaching consequences for the local economy. Bill McCollom, an employee at Lear Corporation in Whitby, Ontario, highlighted the interconnectedness of the automotive supply chain. “If they go down, we’re down — 350 people in our plant that are out of a job immediately,” McCollom noted, illustrating the immediate impact on workers and their families.

Unifor’s Advocacy for Affected Workers

In response to the looming threat of plant closures, Unifor has been proactive in advocating for affected workers. The union has been negotiating for enhanced severance packages, transition support, and retirement options to ensure that employees are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve during these challenging times.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

Despite the challenges, there have been positive developments. In June 2023, GM announced a $280 million investment in the Oshawa Assembly plant, securing the production of the next generation of full-size internal combustion engine pickup trucks. This investment not only preserved thousands of union jobs but also demonstrated GM’s confidence in the capabilities of the Oshawa workforce. ([uniforlocal707.org](https://uniforlocal707.org/2023/06/08/unifor-auto-news-gm-to-invest-280-million-in-oshawa-assembly/?utm_source=openai))

Furthermore, Unifor has been instrumental in driving changes toward equity and inclusion at the GM Oshawa plant. Initiatives such as the establishment of nursing pods, prayer rooms, and gender-neutral washrooms have created a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees. ([unifor.org](https://www.unifor.org/news/all-news/local-222-drives-changes-toward-equity-and-inclusion-gm-oshawa?utm_source=openai))

As the union prepares for upcoming negotiations with the Detroit Three automakers, there is a renewed sense of optimism. The resilience and unity displayed by Unifor Local 222 members serve as a strong foundation for advocating for fair treatment and job security in the evolving automotive industry.

What is Unifor Local 222?

Unifor Local 222 is a labor union representing workers at the General Motors (GM) Assembly Complex in Oshawa, Ontario. The union has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century, advocating for workers’ rights and job security.

What recent developments have affected the GM Oshawa plant?

On March 27, 2025, Unifor Local 222 held an emergency meeting in response to potential threats to the GM Oshawa plant’s future. The union leadership and workers are committed to safeguarding local employment and ensuring the plant’s continued operation.

How has Unifor Local 222 responded to these challenges?

Unifor Local 222, led by President Jeff Grey, has taken a firm stance against any potential closure or downsizing of the GM Oshawa plant. The union is actively negotiating for enhanced severance packages, transition support, and retirement options to protect its members.

What impact woudl the closure of the GM Oshawa plant have on the local economy?

The closure of the GM oshawa plant would have notable repercussions for the local economy. For instance, Bill McCollom, an employee at Lear Corporation in Whitby, Ontario, highlighted the interconnectedness of the automotive supply chain, noting that the closure could lead to immediate job losses for 350 workers at his plant.

What positive developments have occurred recently at the GM Oshawa plant?

In June 2023, GM announced a $280 million investment in the Oshawa Assembly plant, securing the production of the next generation of full-size internal combustion engine pickup trucks. This investment not only preserved thousands of union jobs but also demonstrated GM’s confidence in the capabilities of the Oshawa workforce. Additionally, Unifor has been instrumental in driving changes toward equity and inclusion at the GM Oshawa plant, including the establishment of nursing pods, prayer rooms, and gender-neutral washrooms to create a more inclusive and supportive work surroundings for all employees.

How can I stay updated on unifor Local 222’s initiatives and updates?

For the latest facts on Unifor Local 222’s initiatives and updates, you can visit their official website or follow their social media channels. Engaging with these platforms will provide timely updates and insights into the union’s activities and advocacy efforts.