‘What is gravely amiss in this rhetoric is the human factor of those 1,000 individuals not having a clear future past March 23,’ Vezeau-Allen says of Algoma Steel layoffs

SooToday received the following opinion piece from local NDP candidate Lisa Vezeau-Allen, in regards to the recent announcement of Algoma Steel layoffs:

Yesterday my community, the city of Sault Ste. Marie received the official announcement that Algoma Steel will be laying off 1,000 workers effective March 23, 2026.

It was known that the workforce would be minimized with the new technology of steel making with the Electric Arc Furnace (a double edged sword), while producing less pollutants it also greatly affects the workers needed. That combined with the tariffs from the leadership of our neighbour to the south, has created the perfect storm in reducing our critical workforce and economic driver in this city of just over 76,000 people.

This created a furor of what I call, “the blame game.” Do we blame the government? Do we blame Trump? Do we blame cleaner steel making? What is gravely amiss in this rhetoric is the human factor of those 1,000 individuals not having a clear future past March 23. This will put huge pressure on families and others affected by these job losses, and also our social agencies and workers will be feeling this impact shift in our society.

Leadership in times like these isn’t about titles—it’s about showing up, listening, and helping people find a path forward. I will continue to do that work, alongside so many others, because the well-being of our community depends on it, and because I believe deeply in the resilience of my hometown community.

Our union leaders have been working tirelessly and recovery plans are being put in place, however the well being of individuals and families needs to be the priority, and that is our responsibility as friends and neighbours. Support and solutions need to be the topic of conversation among leaders, not actions of the lone U.S. president that we cannot predict or control.

Educators need to be prepared for the stress this will put on students and families. Social agencies need to be prepared for the strain this puts on family relationships. People’s potential life plans have been completely turned upside down, and while some of this was expected, the finality of the notices makes it a harsh reality.

We need solutions for emotional well-being along with the practical. As community members we need to reach out and assist how we can. This will impact our economy, we can measure those dollars and cents, however it is the unmeasurable impact on health and emotional stability that needs time and care.

In times of hardship, strong leadership means offering clarity, compassion, and a steady hand.

My hope comes from knowing that together, with thoughtful leadership, we can build a path forward where everyone has a chance to succeed.

Lisa Vezeau-Allen

SSM ON NDP Candidate of Record

Social Enterprise Entrepreneur