James (Jim) Biros, Executive Director of the Toronto Musicians’ Association, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, September 19, 2014 at the age of 66. Jim’s loss will be shared by his family, all musicians and the live arts community, and the labour movement.
Sister Irene Harris, former Executive Vice President of the Ontario Federation of Labour, shared with me that she worked with Jim when he was a Representative for the Musicians Union.
Jim collaborated with the OFL on the Status of the Artist legislation, and he took a lead role in the education of other unions on what Status of the Artist legislation could achieve. While we did not actually get the legislation, Jim advanced the concerns of Musicians, spread knowledge of the issues faced by our Musicians and ensured that all Unions used Union Musicians in the same way they used other unionized services.
“He was fun, outgoing, articulate, dedicated, smart and a special advocate,” said Irene. “He will be missed by the labour movement and our movement is stronger today because Jim was a part of it.”
On behalf of the OFL, I want to extend my condolences to Brother Jim Biros’ family, friends and colleagues.
Sid Ryan, President