Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Donalda Charron, a trailblazer for women’s unionism in Quebec, has been officially designated
a historic figure under the Cultural Heritage Act. The announcement was made by Mathieu
Lacombe, Quebec’s Minister of Culture and Communications. Charron’s designation pays
tribute to her remarkable contributions to labour activism and her enduring impact on the
province’s history.

Charron emerged as a leader during a pivotal period for workers in Hull, now part of Gatineau.
In 1922, she was elected president of Section A of the Hull Matchmakers’ Union, an
organization tied to the Hull Catholic Workers’ Association. The union, established in 1919
following a landmark labour dispute with the E. B. Eddy Company, Canada’s largest match
producer, fought to improve working conditions for female matchmakers.

In 1924, another labour conflict arose, and Charron played a central role in rallying support for
the workers. She organized demonstrations, led fundraising efforts, and advocated publicly for
their rights, earning her the nickname “union policeman.” Her activism extended beyond the
matchmakers, with significant contributions to the Central Council of Women’s Unions and the
Hull Catholic Women’s Union.

Although her achievements faded from public memory for decades, Charron’s legacy was
revived thanks to the work of anthropologist Serge Bouchard, who highlighted her story on his
radio program De remarquables oubliés . In 2019, the citizens of Gatineau honoured her legacy
by naming their municipal library after her through a popular vote.

“Donalda Charron is a pioneer of women’s unionism in Quebec. It is important for me to
recognize her courage, her tenacity, and her significant contributions to our society,” Minister
Lacombe said. “Her name stands as a symbol of leadership and determination, not only for the
Outaouais but for all of Quebec.”

Photo: Quebec has officially recognized Donalda Charron as a historic figure for her pioneering
role in women’s unionism and labour activism, cementing her legacy as a champion of workers’
rights and dignity. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of the City of Gatineau