As of January 19, 2026, faculty and staff at Laurentian University have begun a strike after negotiations stalled. The Laurentian University Faculty Association (LUFA) announced this decision, stating they felt they had no choice left.
Fabrice Colin, the LUFA President, expressed the frustration of the members. He highlighted that they made significant sacrifices during the university’s financial struggles, including job losses, pension cuts, and heavier workloads. “We did everything needed to help our institution survive,” he said. “Now that things are looking up, it’s time for the Board of Governors to act.”
Laurentian plays a vital role in the community of Northern Ontario. Colin emphasized that fair working conditions are crucial for student success. “When faculty and staff are supported, students thrive,” he noted. This connection between working conditions and educational outcomes is a sentiment echoed by many experts in the field of education. A report from the Canadian Association of University Teachers found that better faculty support leads to improved student performance.
Colin pointed out the urgency of their situation, stating that no one wanted to strike, but the strike was necessary due to the Board’s lack of action. He called on the Board to return to the negotiation table ready for meaningful discussions. Picket lines are set to start at 7:30 AM.
The LUFA represents a broad group of university staff, including tenure-track faculty, librarians, and professional staff. They are affiliated with several larger organizations aimed at promoting equitable working conditions in education.
The clash at Laurentian reflects a broader trend seen in higher education across Canada. Many institutions are facing similar challenges, with faculty members advocating for fair treatment and better support amid increasing pressures. A recent survey indicated that 60% of university faculty nationwide feel their working conditions have deteriorated in recent years.
As this situation develops, it’s becoming clear that the outcomes could impact not only the faculty and staff but also the quality of education received by students. The ongoing dialogue about fair working conditions could lead to significant changes in how educational institutions are managed in the future.
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Fabrice Colin, Laurentian University, LUFA, academic librarians
