A planned demonstration in Windsor against the Ontario government's controversial return-to-office order for public sector staff failed to attract a single participant on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Silent Sidewalk at Planned Protest Site
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) had issued a media advisory announcing a lunchtime rally outside the Ontario Health atHome office at 5415 Tecumseh Rd. E. in Windsor. The event was intended for local members who work for the home-care agency. However, no demonstrators gathered, and the protest did not occur as scheduled.
This Windsor action was meant to coincide with a provincewide day of action protesting the Ford government's mandate, which took effect that same day. The policy requires provincial public sector employees to resume working from the office on a full-time basis.
Union Raises Concerns Over Service and Space
Ontario Health atHome workers coordinate and deliver essential community-based care, including nursing, personal support, therapy, and palliative services. These employees have largely worked remotely since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a news release, CUPE—Canada's largest union—argued that the forced return could disrupt service delivery to clients. The union also highlighted that available office space has significantly decreased since 2019. Instead of a full-time office requirement, CUPE stated that its members are advocating for a hybrid work model that offers flexibility.
Provincewide Action Proceeds Without Windsor
According to CUPE regional communications officer Bill Chalupiak, rallies were scheduled at 10 other locations across Ontario. The Windsor event was the sole location where no protest materialized.
More than 4,200 Ontario Health atHome workers are employed across the province, delivering critical healthcare services directly in people's homes. The union's opposition centers on the belief that a rigid return-to-office policy is unnecessary for roles that have functioned effectively remotely and could ultimately impact the care provided to Ontarians.
