Politics Blog: NDP-Liberal deal shows how minority governments are supposed to work
Ottawa – March 30, 2022 – Canadian politics, much like the politics of our southern neighbours, has come to resemble a hyper-partisan martial arts cage match, rather than an honest attempt to improve the lives of Canadians. Name-calling and unsubstantiated conspiracies have become the norm, instead of respectful debate and a genuine exchange of ideas. […]
Refugee Rights Day – April 4
Each year in Canada, Refugee Rights Day is commemorated on April 4. The day is a moment to celebrate the advances that have been made in the protection of refugee rights in Canada, most notably as a result of the Singh Decision in 1985. It is also an opportunity for us to strengthen our advocacy […]
UFCW launches Mental Health Today webinar series for Spring 2022
Toronto – March 25, 2022 – With the spring season upon us, UFCW Canada is launching an exciting new webinar series aimed at helping UFCW members maintain and improve their mental health in Year Three of the COVID-19 pandemic. Join UFCW Canada this April and May for the Mental Health Today webinar series, where we […]
UFCW Canada representation gets Uber driver reactivated
Laval, Que. – March 24, 2022 – When Uber driver Gabriele lost access to his Uber app, he was overwhelmed with stressful thoughts, like how was he going to pay his bills, earn a living, and provide for himself when he was locked out of his primary source of income? “I felt impatient and insecure […]
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
A 2021 Statistics Canada analysis found that while police reported crimes across the country were on a decline after five years of increases, in 2020, hate crimes increased by 37 percent since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are many ways this year’s date of observance will be marked, however, reflecting on the history […]
BDM Scholarship recipient grateful for support that will help her help others
Abbotsford, B.C. – March 14, 2022 – The latest recipient of the BDM Scholarship award goes to UFCW 247 member Trinity Nacario, who has her sights set on a future helping others as a physiotherapist. “I greatly appreciate the contribution of the BDM Scholarship award towards my studies, and I intend to utilize this opportunity […]
Retail workers at PetSmart join the union – UFCW 1006A
Toronto – March 3, 2022 – Workers at PetSmart in downtown Toronto are the newest members to join UFCW 1006A after a successful organizing campaign to address dignity and respect on the job. “Retail workers across the country are demanding better working conditions and voting union yes,” says UFCW 1006A President Wayne Hanley. “Our local […]
International Women’s Day 2022
Toronto – March 2, 2022 – International Women's Day (IWD) is a time to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and girls everywhere. A time to recognize the women who inspire, and a time to renew discussions about the importance of gender equality in Canada and around the world. The day […]
Anti-racism bargaining guide now available
Toronto – February 28, 2022 – A 2021 national survey led by York University’s Institute for Social Research reported that 96 percent of Black Canadians believe racism is a problem in the workplace. Today, we are proud to release the UFCW Canada Anti-Racism Collective Bargaining Guide to supportunion negotiators and activists in implementing collective bargaining language […]
Petroleum workers at Trans-Northern Pipelines Inc. join the union – UFCW 175 & 633
Richmond Hill, Ont. – February 24, 2022 – Workers at Trans-Northern Pipelines Inc. are the newest members to join UFCW 175 & 633 after a successful certification from the Canada Industrial Relations Board, which regulates federal industries such as oil and gas. “These workers wanted to have a voice in deciding their working-conditions,” says UFCW 175 […]
Industry Snapshot: Price advantage gives chicken market competitive edge
Toronto – February 23, 2022 – According to the latest report from Kevin Grier Market Analysis and Consulting Inc., chicken is poised to outcompete beef and pork products as the market benefits from lower prices and increased demand. Prices for wing cuts are forecasted to go down 5 percent, with demand staying strong over the […]
Apply now for the 2022 UFCW Charity Foundation Scholarship
Washington, D.C. – February 17, 2022 – The UFCW Charity Foundation Scholarship application process is now open to eligible applicants across North America. For over 60 years, the UFCW International Union has awarded union scholarships to recognize UFCW members and their dependents in both Canada and the United States. As part of the union scholarship program, the UFCW […]
Politics Blog: Cons and convoys
Ottawa – February 14, 2022 – As the anti-vaccine convoy rolled into Ottawa, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was released by Canadian Unity, one of the lead groups organizing the convoy, demanding the removal of the prime minister from office. But the only political leader to lose his job was former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole. […]
UFCW members help make the Super Bowl happen
Toronto – February 11, 2022 – Did you know that the leather for every NFL football, including the ones that will be used in this Sunday’s Super Bowl, is crafted in Chicago by UFCW members working at the Horween Leather Company? The Horween workers, who are proud members of UFCW Local 1546, have been making […]
Food processing members at ADM secure new contract – UFCW 401
Calgary – February 7, 2022 – UFCW 401 members at Archer-Daniels-Midland Company recently secured a new contract increases wages by 10% over four-years, in addition to shift-premiums and an increased contribution to the local’s training and education fund. “This was a very difficult round of contract negotiations with the employer and their reluctance in changing […]
Food processing workers at Dare Foods join the union – UFCW 175 & 633
Cambridge, Ont. – February 3, 2022 – Workers at Dare Foods are the newest members to join UFCW 175 & 633 after concluding a successful organizing campaign that will see approximately 170 staff at the Cambridge, Ontario confectionary facility join the union. “We applaud these members for making the choice to become part of our […]
UFCW Canada and Uber Canada reach historic national agreement to benefit drivers and delivery people
TORONTO – January 27, 2022 – Uber Canada and the United Food and Commercial Workers Canada (UFCW Canada) have hammered out a historic national agreement that provides over 100,000 drivers and delivery people on the Uber platform with strong representation and supports government reforms to provide drivers and delivery people new benefits and preserve the […]
UFCW Canada honours Black History Month
Every February, we honour Black History Month by reflecting on the past and present contributions and challenges faced by Black people in Canada. Amidst a landscape of resistance and resilience, Black leaders throughout history have paved the way for the many societal gains we enjoy today. The month arose out of the work of scholar […]
Urgent Appeal: Release jailed union leaders in Cambodia
Toronto – January 25, 2022 – UFCW Canada is in solidarity with striking union members of the Labor Rights Supported Union of Khmer Employees of NagaWorld (LRSU) in partnership with the International Union of Food and Allied Workers (IUF). Eight union leaders were jailed for protesting management’s actions which resulted in the forced redundancy of […]
Meat processing members at Olymel increase wages, shift premiums in new contract – UFCW 1991-P
Yamachiche, Que. – January 17, 2022 – UFCW 1991-P members at Olymel Yamachiche pork processing facility recently ratified a new collective agreement that provides substantial wage increases for new hires, in addition to increasing shift premiums. “Congratulations to the bargaining committee for their excellent work negotiating this new contract,” says UFCW 1991-P President Mario Maisonneuve. […]
Politics Blog: Health care profiteers using pandemic to push for privatization
Ottawa – January 14, 2022 – The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed many holes in our public health care system, and there are many on the political right who see it as an opportunity to privatize health care. Canada’s public health care system has suffered for many years from a lack proper funding, insufficient worker recruitment […]
This is Our Shot to be #TogetherAgain
Toronto – January 5, 2022 – As the country faces another wave of pandemic restrictions to blunt the growing threat of COVID-19 variants, it is important for Canadians to get booster shots of approved vaccines to ease pressure on local health systems. As part of the Faster Together coalition of civil society organizations, UFCW Canada […]
By the Numbers: Corporate CEO compensation 191 times the average worker
Toronto – January 4, 2022 – According to a study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) compensation for Canadian CEOs is at its second-highest level in history, with the top 100 executives out-earning the average worker before lunchtime on the first official working day of the year. Indeed, the report shows that 100 […]
UFCW Canada members have shown courage, resolve in face of unrelenting pandemic
Toronto – December 22, 2021 – The COVID-19 pandemic continued to dominate our lives in 2021, but instead of complaining about a virus that seemingly refuses to go away, UFCW members rolled up their sleeves and showed courage and resolve on the front lines of Canada’s most important industries. From coast to coast, UFCW Canada […]
Drivers at National Diabetes Trust join the union – UFCW 175 & 633
Hamilton, Ont. – December 20, 2021 – UFCW 175 & 633 recently welcomed drivers from the National Diabetes Trust, concluding their month-long campaign with a successful certification vote. “These members have been through a lot during these difficult times and deserve the opportunity to make workplace improvements through collective bargaining,” says UFCW 175 President Shawn […]
UFCW Canada Equity Grant Recipient Spotlight: Bridging the Generational Gap
Toronto – December 16, 2021 – This year’s recipient of the UFCW Canada Equity Grant has been awarded to UFCW 175 & 633 union member dependent Janet Tang and will go toward supporting the work of Bridging the Generational Gap (BTGG). “With the generous support of UFCW Canada, what started as just an idea is […]
International Migrants Day
The United Nations (UN) proclaimed December 18 as International Migrants Day to recognize the contributions of migrants around the world and to acknowledge everything migrant workers do to help the economies of their host communities. The UN theme for 2021 is Harnessing the Potential of Human Mobility. This has never been closer to the truth […]
LLSC designates December 13 as UFCW Canada Day!
Toronto – December 13, 2021 – Today has been designated UFCW Canada Day by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) in recognition of the valuable contributions made by UFCW Canada members to help find a cure to blood cancers. “Your generous support has helped to fuel what once seemed impossible – research that […]
UFCW Canada commends federal government for releasing residential school files
Ottawa – December 9, 2021 – UFCW Canada and Indigenous Sub-committee members are commending the announcement made this week that the federal government will be turning over thousands of residential school files to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) based in Winnipeg. The decision comes after months of advocacy by UFCW Canada Indigenous […]
Human Rights Day
On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The Declaration stipulates universal values and international standards of human rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being. This annual date of observance commemorates the day the Declaration was adopted and is an opportunity to emphasize […]
Food processing members at Cargill avoid strike and secure gains with new contract – UFCW 401
High River, Alta. – December 7, 2021 – UFCW 401 members at Cargill recently voted in favour of a new collective agreement that makes significant gains while avoiding a strike at one of country’s largest beef processing facilities. “With chaos swirling about it often felt like members were being treated like lightbulbs – you burn […]
2021 BDM Scholarship winners announced!
Toronto – December 2, 2021 – UFCW Canada is proud to announce the winners of this year’s BDM Scholarship Program. Every year, UFCW Canada offers 18 BDM Scholarships valued at $1,000 each to members and their dependents to help cover the costs of post-secondary education. Allocated by region across Canada, this renowned union scholarship is […]
National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Toronto – December 1, 2021 – Each year on December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, we mourn the loss and honour the memory of the 14 women students at Montreal’s École Polytechnique, who in 1989 were viciously murdered by a lone gunman simply because they were women. The […]
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 3 marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, commemorated by the United Nations (UN) since 1992. On this day we affirm our commitment to continue fighting for disability inclusion at work and in society at large. This year’s theme is leadership and participation of persons with disabilities towards an inclusive, accessible, and sustainable […]
Beverage members at Coca-Cola Canada Bottling build a better life – UFCW 1288P
Edmundston, Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John, and Bathurst, N.B. – November 25, 2021 – Dozens of UFCW Local 1288P members working at Coca-Cola Canada Bottling locations across New Brunswick have ratified a new six-year union contract that provides wage gains, improved benefits and vacation scheduling, and more. Highlights of the new collective agreement at Coca-Cola Canada […]
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Toronto – November 22, 2021 – The United Nations (UN) recognizes November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. To mark the occasion, UFCW Canada is participating in the Wear Purple Day to demonstrate our commitment to ending gender-based violence. The day also marks the official launch of the UN-inspired 16 […]
Hospitality workers at Steamworks Baths join the union – UFCW 1006A
Toronto – November 18, 2021 – Hospitality workers at Steamworks Baths are the latest to join UFCW 1006A after a successful conclusion of their organizing campaign, which saw a majority of the 23-worker bargaining unit vote yes. “We are pleased to welcome the newest members from Steamworks Baths to our union family,” says UFCW 1006A […]
Transgender Day of Remembrance
Since 1999, the Transgender Day of Remembrance has been observed annually on November 20, following the murder of Rita Hester. Rita Hester was a Black transgender woman from Massachusetts who was killed in 1998 in her own apartment. Her case remains unsolved. The lack of media attention over her murder highlighted the disproportionate ways in […]
UFCW Canada 2021 Equity Grant winners announced!
Toronto – November 15, 2021 – UFCW Canada is proud to announce that three outstanding individuals – Janet Tang, Robert Jessup, and Adam Yahav – have been selected as the inaugural recipients of the UFCW Canada Equity Grant Program. UFCW Canada launched the exciting Equity Grant Program on December 10, 2020, to coincide with Human […]
UFCW Local Unions in Ontario win arbitration in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Toronto – November 9, 2021 – UFCW Canada Local Unions in Ontario recently won a historic arbitration after taking Loblaw to task for violating the terms of its collective agreement upon failing to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a paid holiday. UFCW Canada local unions in Ontario represent tens of thousands […]
UFCW Women’s Network 14th Biennial Convention
Toronto – October 28, 2021 – Over 300 members from across Canada and the U.S. recently participated in UFCW Women’s Network 14th Biennial Convention held virtually. The biennial convention’s theme entitled, “Resilience Through Leadership” was aptly named as women continue to navigate the challenges presented by the pandemic. Participants heard from UFCW International President Marc […]
By the Numbers: Gig work in Canada
Toronto – October 25, 2021 – The gig-economy is on a steady increase in Canada and according to a study released by the Future Skills Centre there are three key takeaways when understanding the trend. Firstly, with earnings averaging just $10,000 a year the data suggests many gig workers are turning to gig work to […]
Beverage members at Heaven Hill Distillery secure scheduling, add stat day with new contract – UFCW 401
Lethbridge, Alta. – October 22, 2021 – UFCW 401 members working at Heaven Hill Distillery recently voted overwhelmingly in support of a new four-year collective agreement. With the new contract at Heaven Hill, members avoid attempts by the company to alternate shifts and include weekends with no restriction. “The negotiating committee pushed back hard and […]
BDM Scholarship empowers member to excel in studies – UFCW 1006A
London, Ont. – October 18, 2021 – UFCW 1006A member and Western University student Callan Klooster is the latest recipient of the BDM Scholarship award, valued at $1,000. “As a full-time student and part-time worker, this scholarship goes a long way to empower my ability to learn,” says the third-year King’s Scholar. “It not only […]
Food processing workers at Maple Leaf Foods join the union – UFCW 832
Winnipeg – October 15, 2021 – UFCW 832 recently welcomed workers at Maple Leaf Foods Paquin Road after successfully ratifying their first collective agreement at the company’s newest facility, which is set to open in November. “Our union’s longstanding history of bargaining with Maple Leaf Foods means these workers are starting with a sophisticated contract […]
webCampus adds new courses to Fall catalogue – Register Now
Toronto – October 14, 2021 – UFCW Canada’s premier training and skills development online learning platform webCampus has added a host of new courses to its On-the-Go catalogue among other fall offerings. With COVID-19 disrupting the traditional jobs market adding to an already rapidly changing digital and automated skills environment, webCampus wants to help you […]
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
In 1992, the United Nations General Assembly adopted October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Despite the continued growth in global economic development, millions of people around the world continue to live in extreme poverty. Today, there are 1.3 billion people living in persistent poverty and the COVID-19 pandemic has only […]
Food processing members at Donald’s Fine Foods increase wages, shift premiums – UFCW 1518
Richmond, B.C. – October 12, 2021 – Members at Donald’s Fine Foods in Richmond, British Columbia ratified a new collective agreement that increases wages, shift premiums, benefits and pension contributions. The new five-year contract comes with annual wage increases totaling 15% in the life of the collective agreement, in addition to a new night shift […]
Meat processing workers at TruHarvest join the union – UFCW 1006A
Toronto – October 8, 2021 – Meat processing workers at TruHarvest recently joined UFCW 1006A after voting overwhelming in favour of union representation in a vote held by the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB). “Many of our members at TruHarvest already know the strength and protection that union representation provides,” said UFCW 1006A President Wayne Hanley. […]
World Mental Health Day
Every October 10, people around the world observe World Mental Health Day to raise awareness of the stigmas surrounding mental illness and the importance of promoting mental health. With new challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, and an increased need for mental health services as people grapple with the coronavirus crisis, this year’s World Mental Health Day […]
By the Numbers: Accommodation and food services lead Canadian GDP comeback
Toronto – October 4, 2021 – Statistics Canada released its GDP report by industry for the month of July and all signs point to a resurgence of accommodation and food services across the country. The industry is finally beginning to recover some of its historic losses in 2020 as public health restrictions ease in the […]
Women’s History Month – October 2021
Toronto – October 1, 2021 – Over the last 150 years, women in Canada have made notable strides towards gender equality in our workplaces and communities, and each year activists across the country honour Women’s History Month to celebrate those gains. Held every October, Women’s History Month includes the International Day of the Girl (October […]
Desjardins adds National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to its statutory holidays
Montreal – September 28, 2021 – Last June, the Canadian Parliament passed legislation to create a statutory holiday for federal government employees and federally regulated workplaces to commemorate the tragic fate of residential school victims. Thus, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation has been declared for September 30 of each year. Although Desjardins is […]
UFCW Canada commemorates National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Ottawa – September 24, 2021 – In June of this year, the federal government proclaimed September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day calls for recognition and reflection of the ongoing legacy of Canada’s residential school system. As a paid statutory holiday, it covers all federally regulated employees working in the […]
Industry Snapshot: Canada’s tomato industry nears $1 billion in value
Toronto – September 21, 2021 – Statistics Canada released its latest infographics on trends in the Canadian tomato sector revealing an industry producing nearly $1 billion in value and exporting over 172 million kilograms (kg) of product in 2020. Greenhouse production stood at 256.4 million kg and edging out field production value by more than […]
webCampus continues to expand pre-apprenticeship training with horticulturalist course – Register Now
Toronto – September 20, 2021 – According to Statistics Canada, the Canadian horticultural industry is valued at $7.4 billion and employs nearly 270,000 workers. To prepare UFCW Canada members with the skills and knowledge to excel in this profitable and growing industry, webCampus has launched the Horticulturalist Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program has been designed specifically […]
UFCW Canada supports International Equal Pay Day – September 18
Toronto – September 14, 2021 – International Equal Pay Day, annually commemorated on September 18, was established in 2019 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in response to painfully slow progress on women’s economic empowerment, the undervaluing of work traditionally held by women, and the difficulties in tackling pay inequality around the world. In […]
First-ever virtual YIP series inspires new generation of UFCW activists
Toronto – September 10, 2021 – UFCW Canada recently concluded another successful season of the country’s leading labour training program for young activists – the UFCW Canada Young-Workers Internship Program (YIP). Pivoting from the tried and true in-person model, which was postponed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, UFCW YIP made a triumphant return […]
UFCW Canada and allies welcome Metro’s commitment to phase out toxic BPA and BPS receipts
Toronto – September 9, 2021 – Following calls from UFCW Canada and advocacy partners to Ditch Toxic Receipts, Metro Inc. has made a public commitment toend the use of paper receipts coated with toxic bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS) in all Metro food and pharmacy banners. “UFCW Canada commends Metro for showing leadership […]
More retail workers at Indigo Chapters join the union – UFCW 1006A
Toronto – September 8, 2021 – Retail workers at Chapters Scarborough have voted to join UFCW Local 1006A, becoming the most recent group of Indigo Chapters workers to achieve unionization in Canada. UFCW 1006A also represents workers at Indigo Yorkdale Mall, Chapters Woodbridge, and Indigo Square One. "Our unionization is nothing if not an expression of the deep love we […]
Retirement home members at Revera Meadowlands build a better life – UFCW 401
Medicine Hat, Alta. – September 7, 2021 – UFCW Local 401 members working at Revera Meadowlands Retirement Residence in Medicine Hat, Alberta have achieved a new union contract that provides wage increases, improved benefits, and more. Bargaining with Revera Meadowlands Retirement Residence was short and sweet, involving just over four days of negotiations. “All of these employees […]
Politics Blog: We need to vote for a government that represents working people
Ottawa – September 3, 2021 – With the snap federal election now upon us, and Election Day less than a month away, many of us are considering voting tactically or engaging in “strategic voting.” There is often disagreement about whether strategic voting influences the outcome of an election. Still, it is a question many of […]
Only weeks left to win two iPads and $18K in scholarships
Toronto – September 2, 2021 – With less than four weeks left to apply for the 2021 UFCW Canada – BDM Scholarship program, time is running out for your chance to win one of 18 scholarships worth $1,000 each, or one of two Apple iPads. Each year, UFCW Canada offers 18 UFCW Canada – BDM Scholarships to […]
Labour Day and the march toward a just pandemic recovery
Toronto – September 1, 2021 – Every year on Labour Day, Canada’s unions and members celebrate the contributions of workers across the country. Last year, COVID-19 meant there were no gatherings, but this year may be different depending on where you live. Some people will be able to gather in person, others will celebrate virtually […]
UFCW Canada recognized as Thanks a Million recipient by United Way Centraide Canada
Toronto – August 27, 2021 – UFCW Canada members have earned special recognition as a 2020 Thanks a Million recipient for their tireless efforts to help those in need by raising over $1 million to support the United Way’s work in local communities across the country. “In these unprecedented times, the support of UFCW Canada […]
Jagmeet Singh and the NDP release election platform focused on helping those most in need
Ottawa – August 19, 2021 – Justin Trudeau and the Liberal Party of Canada have launched the country into an unnecessary election campaign that most Canadians simply do not want. Jagmeet Singh and the NDP had offered to support the minority liberal government in passing legislation to help those most in need recover from the […]
Industry Snapshot: Canada’s beef supply chain maintains a solid decade of growth
Toronto – August 17, 2021 – According to the latest report from Statistics Canada, the nation’s beef supply chain continues to be a major source of the country’s economic growth going on a decade. The country exported 308 million kilograms of fresh and chilled beef products valued at $2.3 billion in 2019 alone while only […]
Manufacturing workers at Groupe Lacasse join the union – UFCW 1991P
Montreal – August 16, 2021 – Manufacturing workers at Groupe Lacasse Inc. are the newest members to join UFCW 1991P after receiving certification from the Administrative Labour Tribunal (TAT). “I would like to give a warm welcome to the workers of Groupe Lacasse after choosing to join our local union,” says UFCW 1991P President Mario […]
Ontario court moves workers’ class-action lawsuit against Uber to the next stage
Toronto – August 13, 2021 – In the next step towards full recognition of employment rights, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice has certified Uber drivers' class-action lawsuit against their app-based employer. “This is the correct decision of the court and as the union for Uber drivers we are paying close attention to the outcome […]
Food retail members at Central Alberta Co-op ratify new contract – UFCW 401
Red Deer, Alta. – August 12, 2021 – UFCW 401 members at the Central Alberta Co-op voted 90% in favour of ratifying a new five-year collective agreement with major gains. The new contract at Central Alberta Co-op comes with singing bonuses of $1,000 for full-time, $500 for part-time and $200 for casual employees in addition […]
Politics Blog: Tough times for Erin O’Toole
Ottawa – August 9, 2021 – With a federal election on the horizon, Conservative Party of Canada leader Erin O’Toole has failed to gain traction with voters, and according to latest polls, is looking less and less capable of leading them to victory. O’Toole has attempted to make his party sound softer by talking about […]
Cannabis workers at third Tokyo Smoke location join the union – UFCW 1006A
Toronto – August 6, 2021 – Cannabis dispensary workers from Tokyo Smoke at the Chartwell Shopping Center in Toronto become the retailers third location to join UFCW 1006A after securing a successful certification vote. “I am proud to congratulate our newest members for standing up for themselves and their co-workers to improve their workplace,” says […]
UFCW Canada observes International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples – August 9
On December 1994, the United Nations General Assembly declared August 9 as the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. This day of observance is an opportunity to bring attention to the history of colonization and the systemic barriers that Indigenous communities face here in Canada, or Turtle Island, and around the world. There are […]
UFCW 1400 President Lucia Flack Figueiredo and Secretary-Treasurer Marilynne MacFarlane sworn in
Saskatoon, Sask. – August 3, 2021 – President Lucia Flack Figueiredo and Secretary-Treasurer Marilynne MacFarlane have officially begun their new roles in serving the membership and union, after being sworn into office by UFCW Canada National President Paul Meinema and members of the UFCW Local 1400 Executive Board. “It is a tremendous privilege and responsibility […]
By the Numbers: EI benefits pointing to long-term unemployment concerns
Toronto – July 29, 2021 – The latest data from Statistics Canada points to concerns surrounding long-term unemployment with many industries still struggling in the pandemic fallout. In-person service industries such as accommodation, food services, retail and recreation accounted for 41.8% of all regular EI recipients. As case numbers steadily decline across the country and […]
Apply now for BDM Scholarship awards and referral prizes – September 30 deadline
Toronto – July 27, 2021 – With the start of the new academic year fast approaching, UFCW Canada members and their family are reminded to apply for one of 18 scholarships valued at $1,000. Every year, UFCW Canada offers 18 UFCW Canada – BDM Scholarships to active members and their family members to help with the rising […]
$2.1 million campaign pushes UFCW Canada lifetime fundraising for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada past $47.2 million
Toronto – July 26, 2021 – Despite an extraordinarily challenging year, UFCW Canada members and Local Unions were undeterred in their extraordinary ongoing fundraising efforts, raising more than $ 2.1 million dollars in their latest annual campaign to support the lifesaving and lifechanging work of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). Since adopting […]
Hospitality workers at Ramada Plaza join the union – UFCW 501
Montreal – July 22, 2021 – Hospitality workers at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham in Montreal, Quebec are the newest members to join UFCW 501 after a lengthy certification process. The new members waited for over a year to have the Tribunal administratif du travail (TAT) render its decision on certifying the new bargaining unit. […]
Politics Blog: A plan to get the economy on track by assisting workers
Ottawa – July 19, 2021 – With the Liberals determined to have an election while many are still suffering economically and health-wise due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Jagmeet Singh and the NDP have released a detailed jobs plan to get Canadians back to work with the supports they need. While ordinary Canadians have lost jobs, […]
Grocery workers at Marché Adonis join the union – UFCW 500
Montreal – July 16, 2021 – UFCW Canada is proud to welcome food retail workers from the Marché Adonis grocery store located in the Dollard-des-Ormeaux area of Montreal. These new members are the first group of workers in the Marché Adonis grocery chain to organize a union in order to raise wages, gain respect, and improve scheduling […]
webCampus offers new courses for summer enrolment
Toronto – July 13, 2021 – UFCW Canada’s online learning platform, webCampus, is offering two new courses over the summer in the On-the-Go and Digital Skills formats. The two courses are described as follows: On-the-Go: Emotional Intelligence – Asking the Tough Questions explores the role that feelings, identity, and perception play in determining who we […]
BDM Scholarship winner feels honoured to be latest recipient – UFCW 12R24
Ottawa – July 12, 2021 – Police foundations student and UFCW 12R24 member Andrew Barclay is the latest recipient of UFCW Canada’s BDM Scholarship, granted annually to members and their families. “This scholarship will enable me to continue with my studies and pay the day-to-day bills that come along with living alone while going to […]
Cannabis workers at Tokyo Smoke join the union – UFCW 1006A
Toronto – July 9, 2021 – Cannabis workers at Tokyo Smoke in Toronto have joined their colleagues in Hamilton, Ontario as the second location to join UFCW 1006A within the past year. “On behalf of our local union, we are proud to welcome the newest members from Tokyo Smoke,” says UFCW 1006A President Wayne Hanley. […]
UFCW Canada advocacy gets results for migrant workers
Toronto – July 8, 2021 – With the help of UFCW Canada, a group of migrant agricultural workers from Guatemala have successfully recovered their passports and work permits after they were illegally retained by their former employer in Redcliff, Alberta. The migrant workers have been coming to Canada for the last three years and began […]
Education workers at New Haven Learning Centre join the union – UFCW 175 & 633
Toronto – July 7, 2021 – Education workers at New Haven Learning Centre in Toronto are the newest members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 after recently saying “Yes!” to joining the union. The new members work as Instructor Therapists who support children and adults with developmental disabilities. With their specialized skills, these therapists aid […]
UFCW organizers share stories of triumph, inspiration at 2021 National Organizing Meeting
Toronto – July 6, 2021 – UFCW Canada Local Union organizers and National Office staff, along with guest speakers from the United States, recently convened virtually to share best practices at the 2021 National Organizing Meeting. Activists learned that UFCW Canada’s growth agenda has remained undeterred by the COVID-19 pandemic, with thousands of workers choosing […]
Municipal employees at Town of Virden secure higher wages – UFCW 832
Virden, Man. – July 2, 2021 – After two long days of bargaining, UFCW 832 members working at the Town of Virden ratified a four-year collective bargaining agreement that provides major gains for members and their families. Highlights of the new contract include: A wage increase of 8.5 percent over four years, including retroactive pay. […]
Global unions raise awareness on regulations against workplace violence and harassment
Toronto – June 30, 2021 – Unions around the world are celebrating new international labour rules protecting the right to a workplace free from violence and harassment by launching a new toolkit aimed at raising awareness of the regulations. Recognizing that workers and unions face the risk of violence and harassment in the workplace on […]
Food retail members at Atlantic Superstore build a better life – UFCW 1288P
Moncton, N.B. – June 29, 2021 – UFCW Canada Local 1288P members working at Atlantic Superstore in New Brunswick have achieved a new collective agreement with several gains that will help members and their families build a better life. The five-year agreement covers UFCW 1288P members working at Atlantic Superstore locations in Atholville, Bathurst, Kennebecasis […]
Retail members at Indigo Square One achieve first contract – UFCW 1006A
Mississauga, Ont. – June 23, 2021 – UFCW Canada Local 1006A members working at the Chapters-Indigo bookstore at the Square One shopping centre in Mississauga, Ontario have ratified their first collective agreement. The members at the store voted to join the union last fall. Their first contract provides a number of important gains including annual raises, additional […]
BDM Scholarship recipient thankful for help throughout trying pandemic – UFCW 501
Montreal – June 21, 2021 – Dulce Vivar, Université de Montréal student of international cooperation, political science and economics is the latest recipient of the $1,000 prize granted to members and their family through UFCW Canada’s BDM scholarship award. “At this time in the pandemic equipment like laptops, headphones and microphones are crucial to academic […]
CLC Convention concludes with historic election of all-women slate
Ottawa – June 18, 2021 – Newly-elected CLC President Bea Bruske and members of Team Unite humbly accepted victory as thousands of delegates at the CLC 29th Constitutional Convention elected the Team to strenghten and unite Canada’s labour movement. View the full article here.
UFCW Canada poised to lead at the CLC’s 29th Constitutional Convention
Ottawa – June 16, 2021 – With a historic number of registered delegates, UFCW Canada members are ready to get to work on shaping the agenda of Canada’s labour movement in unprecedented times. UFCW Canada is proud to endorse the Team Unite slate of Bea Bruske for CLC President, Lily Chang for CLC Secretary-Treasurer, and Siobhan Vipond […]
Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day – June 21
Toronto – June 14, 2021 – Canadians are called to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, culture and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples on National Indigenous Peoples Day – June 21. It is also an important time for non-Indigenous peoples in Canada to learn more about the role settlers have played in […]
UFCW Canada endorses Larry Rousseau for CLC Executive Vice President
Toronto – June 11, 2021 – UFCW Canada is pleased to endorse Larry Rousseau for CLC Executive Vice President – a role that he has proudly served in since 2017. Larry has a long history of labour activism, from helping union members as a shop steward to serving as the Regional Executive Vice-President of the […]
UFCW Canada hosts Fifth Annual National Indigenous Rights Conference
Toronto – June 9, 2021 – Approximately 75 Indigenous members, leaders, and allies gathered online to take part in UFCW Canada’s Fifth Annual National Indigenous Rights Conference. The 2021 conference theme was “Grounding Our Indigenous Spirit” and called upon participants to reflect on the diverse ways Indigenous rights are embedded in activism, culture, language, and […]
Faster Together coalition encourages Canadians to get vaccinated as soon as they can
Ottawa – June 2, 2021 – UFCW Canada has partnered with the Faster Together coalition – a national task force aimed at encouraging Canadians to get vaccinated as soon as they can. The task force, made up of various civil society organizations, has launched the campaign Faster Together to overcome vaccine hesitancy, which according to […]
UFCW Canada honours National Indigenous History Month with solemn reminder of colonial past and present
Toronto – June 1, 2021 – With the revelation of mass child burials in Kamloops, B.C., UFCW Canada takes solace to remember the horrors of Canada’s colonial past and present. While the graves were dug many years ago the legacy of Canada’s residential school system are still fresh wounds in the hearts of many First […]
UFCW Canada releases Pandemic Bargaining Guide
Toronto – May 25, 2021 – At the beginning of the pandemic UFCW Canada initiated a project to collect COVID-19 related collective bargaining language. The objective of this project was to gather and then share language in a guide to assist bargaining committees with the most relevant language in negotiations to protect workers in recent […]
UFCW Canada observes Asian Heritage Month
May marks the celebration of Asian Heritage Month, a time when we recognize the invaluable contributions of people of Asian descent to Canada’s social, political, economic, scientific, and cultural landscape. It is also a moment in which we acknowledge the resistance of people of Asian descent in Canadian history. This year, we are observing Asian […]
