Bad boss? Low wages?
Unions can make sure you get the dignity and respect every worker deserves. You have the right to join a union, whether you work in a small or a large workplace.
Contact us today about how you can get a union at your workplace. All conversations are confidential. Email us, or call 604-430-1421. Or just use this form, and we'll be in touch.
Already have a union and want to help out? Click here!
How unions work | How to get one | Q & A
Take the first step today
How unions work for you
On our own, we don’t stand a chance — and our bosses know it. But when we stand together, we can gain better wages, fair benefits, safe and healthy workplaces, and stable working hours.
With unions, you get:
Better pay In Canada, the typical union worker makes 28 per cent more per hour than the typical non-union worker!
Job security When you’re a union member, you can speak out about workplace problems without worrying you’ll be disciplined or lose your job.
Fairness, not favouritism Your union negotiates a set of rules that guarantee fairness for everyone. Your boss doesn’t get to play favourites.
Respect and a voice at work When you join a union, you have a say in what happens at your workplace. Management knows they have to treat you decently.
Training Unions offer training on topics like your rights at work and workplace health. And many union negotiate skills training in their contracts.
A better workplace When you and your co-workers band together in a union, you have a clear process for bringing problems to management and getting them solved.
How to get a union
If you're interested in joining a union, please fill out this form. Someone from our team will reach out to you for a confidential consultation.
Here’s what happens in that first conversation:
1. You tell us what’s going on in your workplace and the issues you’re facing.
2. We put you in touch with a union organizer who can walk you through the next steps of signing up your coworkers.
3. Once you have enough coworkers signed up, the union applies to represent you all.
- If 55% of you have signed up, it’ll happen automatically.
- If 45-55% have signed up, there’ll be a confidential vote on whether to join.
And that's it! Congratulations: you have your union, and all the benefits that come with it!
Questions and answers
How many of my co-workers do I need to get to sign up?
In most cases, at least 55% of your co-workers must sign union cards to ensure you get certification. The more support you get, the more likely you'll succeed.
Is it safe to try to form a union?
The law protects your right to join a union. Your employer isn't allowed to:
- fire you for supporting a union
- threaten or punish you
- promise rewards to stop you from joining.
If this happens, there are legal ways to respond. The key is to plan carefully in advance.
Will my employer find out?
Organizing usually starts out private, speaking with a small group you trust. As support grows, more people are involved.
At some point, the employer will probably discover you're organizing. But good planning with your union organizer helps reduce the risk — and know what to do once they find out.
Can we choose which union to join?
Yes. The BCFED can help connect you with the right union, and you can talk with them to see if it's a fit.
What if the employer tries to stop the union?
Some employers may try to discourage unions with meetings, messages or pressure. Your union organizer can help you understand your rights and respond.
How long does this take?
It depends. Some campaigns move quickly. Others take more time to build support. But successful campaigns have two things in common:
Careful planning...
...and someone like you to get things started.
Ready for the first step? Get in touch and we'll talk!
Unions Are For You is a campaign of the British Columbia Federation of Labour. Our offices are located on unceded xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), səl̓ílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) territories.
This page is built and maintained by members of MoveUP and USW 2009.