Windsor-Essex community is celebrating one of its most dedicated advocates after Sue McKinnon received one of the region's highest labour honours. The longtime activist for workers' rights and women's issues was presented with the prestigious Charles E. Brooks Labour Community Service Award during a special ceremony that recognized her decades of volunteer work.
A Lifetime of Community Service
Sue McKinnon, a Unifor Local 444 member and Caesars Windsor employee, accepted the award during the 48th annual Labour Appreciation Night at the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts on Thursday, November 13, 2025. The emotional ceremony brought together labour leaders and community members to honour McKinnon's extensive contributions.
"Receiving this award was an unbelievable honour," McKinnon shared after the ceremony. "I don't do this work for recognition - I do it to make a real difference in our community. What matters most is that we raise each other up and help one another during difficult times."
McKinnon emphasized that her motivation has always been community-focused. "It's about trying to make a difference where we live," she stated, reflecting on her years of activism.
Decades of Advocacy and Leadership
Since 2007, McKinnon has chaired Local 444's Women's Committee, where she has been instrumental in organizing and leading numerous important campaigns. Her work has included Shine the Light, Wear Purple, the REDress Project, and Take Back the Night events that address gender-based violence and support vulnerable community members.
McKinnon has also been a driving force behind local observances of International Women's Day and the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Her consistent presence and leadership in these initiatives have made her a respected figure throughout the Windsor-Essex region.
Lorraine Goddard, CEO of United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent, praised McKinnon's approach to community work. "Sue McKinnon embodies the very spirit of community leadership and serves with heart," Goddard said. "Her quiet strength, compassion, and lifelong commitment to others have touched countless lives and strengthened our entire community."
Honouring a Legacy of Labour Leadership
The Charles E. Brooks Labour Community Service Award represents more than just recognition - it carries the weight of significant local labour history. Established in 1978 by United Way and the Windsor and District Labour Council, the award honours trade unionists who make outstanding contributions through voluntary community service.
The award's namesake, Charlie Brooks, was a beloved Windsor labour leader and social justice advocate who founded UAW Local 444. Brooks served as president from 1956 until 1977, when his life was tragically cut short by a disgruntled former Chrysler employee. He was 61 years old at the time of his death.
Interim Labour Council president Mario Spagnuolo highlighted the award's deeper significance in a press release. "The Charles E. Brooks award is more than a tribute - it's a reminder of Charlie's enduring legacy of solidarity, compassion, and service," Spagnuolo stated.
Despite the honour recognizing a lifetime of achievement, McKinnon made it clear that her work continues. "I'm not done yet," she affirmed, indicating that Windsor residents can expect to see her continuing advocacy for workers, women, and vulnerable community members in the years ahead.
