Municipal elections top of mind as local advocacy groups mark International Workers’ Day

People gathered listening to a speech at the International Workers Day (May Day) event held by the Waterloo Region Community Coalition at Victoria Park in Kitchener, Ont. on May 2, 2026. (Rowen Fisler/CTV News)

Community members and local advocacy groups braved the cold on Saturday to mark International Workers Day (May Day) in Kitchener’s Victoria Park, with discussion also turning to the upcoming municipal election.

The event, organized by the Waterloo Region Community Coalition (WRCC), included participation from several groups, including FightBack! KW, Waterloo Region ACORN and Waterloo-Wellington Workers Alliance.

Attendees gathered near the park’s clock tower, highlighting workers’ issues and discussing ways to advocate for change in workplaces.

WRCC Founder John Bannister believes inequality remains a key concern.

“I think the inequality that we’re seeing in our communities is absolutely by design, and it’s on us as a community to reconcile who has our best interests and who doesn’t,” Bannister said.

Saturday’s gathering marked the coalition’s launch event. Bannister said the group aims to raise awareness and encourage civic engagement.

“It’s about education and it’s about mass action,” Bannister said. “Us being here today is a sign and signal that we are actually the people who represent our community and that we are the people with the power.”

While the event focused on May Day, some attendees also referenced the municipal election expected later this year.

Acer Bonaparte, a member of FightBack! KW, said residents should remain engaged with elected officials.

“We have the power to put pressure on elected officials to let them know that if they don’t do the right thing, that their seats and their jobs are on the line,” Bonaparte said.

Bannister echoed Bonaparte’s sentiment, stating that candidates will face scrutiny from community members.

“If you’re planning on to be elected in Waterloo Region, then we’ll be watching closely because the community needs people who will actively represent the organized community,” Bannister said.

Some local elected officials and candidates also attended the event.

Vikki Poirier, who is running for Ward 4 councillor, said representation is a key issue for voters.

“It’s about ensuring that people have a voice, the community members have a voice at the table at city council,” Poirier said.

The WRCC said it plans to host additional events ahead of the municipal election.