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Join Our Union

What Is a Union?

You are the union — you and a majority of your co-workers in the workplace. The basic idea of a union is that by joining together with co-workers you will have a greater ability to be more effective in collectively improving conditions at the workplace.

These workplace improvements are achieved through the process of collective bargaining, which concludes with a legally-binding collective agreement, signed between the union and the employer.

Legal Right to Join a Union

There are provincial and federal labour laws that:

  • Ensure you have the right to join and organize a union;
  • Protect you if your employer tries to stop you from joining a
  • Give your union legal recognition; and
  • Require your employer to negotiate with your union.

Your freedom to join a union is guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, this right is protected by Provincial Labour Relations Codes. If you work in federally regulated sectors such as communications and transportation, the Canada Labour Code applies. The legal agency that administers these laws is called the Labour Relations Board (the Board).

If you are thinking about forming a union at your workplace, you should be aware of the basic steps of the legal process.

If you are organizing a union, it is essential to follow the correct process because employers often hire lawyers to challenge your legal right to join a union. An established union has the expertise and resources to make sure you avoid the legal obstacles your employer may try to put in your way and make sure your employer respects your right to join a union.

Is It Legal to Organize? — Yes.

Working men and women have the legal right to union  epresentation.
The Labour Relations Codes and the Canada Labour Code ensures and  protects that right. 


​Georgi Bates


Valerie Roberts-Francis

COPE SEPB-Prairies


Alex Descrochers
Claude Paquet