Every year, thousands of Canadian workers choose to form a union in their workplace. Unionized workers bargain collectively with their employer to improve their overall working conditions. With our help, members have successfully negotiated contracts that have included:
Workers United staff work with our local unions every day to provide them with the resources and support they need to operate effectively. In addition, our members also have access to:
A union is a democratic organization of workers protected by rights in addition to employment standards. No matter what an employer might tell you, it is your legal right to a join a union! It is against the law for employers to threaten or fire you for wanting to form a union. All your information will be kept strictly confidential. Employers will also not have access to the names of workers who signed a union card or who voted to form a union. If you feel your rights have been violated, let us know right away!
Don't settle for poor working conditions - work doesn't have to be horrible! Contact us, learn about your rights and how provincial and/or federal laws apply to your workplace. We’ll also discuss the issues in your workplace, the benefits joining Workers United would bring and what starting a campaign will look like.
We know what you're going through and understand what workers need! Many of our staff came from workplaces just like yours! Workers United organizers will meet with you and your co-workers to create a plan, which will include how to get others involved and how to get membership cards signed.
"I've attended several workshops and events at our local library, and they have all been fantastic. The library offers a welcoming space for learning and community engagement. It's a wonderful asset to our town.The variety of programs available caters to all age groups and interests. From creative writing workshops to technology training sessions, there is something for everyone. Each event is well-organized and led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic facilitators who make learning both enjoyable and accessible.
You are the union! A Local is a collective of unionized workers (members) from one or more workplaces. Once the union is certified in your workplace, members begin the process of establishing their Local. This involves adopting bylaws to establish how decisions are made, electing a bargaining committee (a team that will negotiate your Collective Bargaining Agreement with your employer) and union leaders (i.e. union stewards, and Health and Safety Representatives). Bargaining committee members and union leaders will receive training to help them understand their roles. One of our Union Representative will work with your Local throughout this process.
A collective agreement gives workers power! It legally and fundamentally protects workers who join a union, in addition to employment standards legislation. A collective agreement outlines rules that were negotiated between workers and their employer to mutually agreed upon rules that an employer must follow.
Once the Local is established, your Local Bargaining Committee and Union Representative will begin the process of negotiating your first collective agreement. You will receive information about how to get involved in the union (i.e. how to join our mailing list, who to contact for what, etc.) membership meetings and regular updates about your local and the broader union.
