Join the Union

Why Join a Union?

Welcome to UFCW Canada Local 649’s website. Our organizers can help explain what a union is all about, as well as the steps required to join a union. They can provide answers to any questions you might have about the benefits of joining a union and what your employer can and cannot do during a unionization drive.

What is a Union?

YOU are the union – you and your co-workers make up the membership of your union. By joining together with your co-workers, you will have a greater ability to improve working conditions at your workplace. Workplace improvements are achieved through the process of collective bargaining, which concludes with a legally-binding collective agreement, signed by the union and the employer.

What are the Benefits of Belonging to a Union?

Your union’s goals in the workplace are determined by members and include things such as:

  • Job security

  • Health and safety in the workplace

  • Equal pay for equal work

  • Employment equity

  • Fair wages and benefits

  • Dignity and respect

  • Democratization of the workplace

Legal Right to Join or Form a Union

There are also provincial and federal labour laws that deal with these issues:

  • Job security

  • Ensuring you have the right to join and organize a union

  • Protecting you if your employer disciplines you for joining a union

  • Giving your union legal recognition; and

  • Requiring your employer to negotiate with your union

Your freedom to join a union is guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and this right is protected by provincial labour relation codes.

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

Workers are stronger when they face management shoulder-to-shoulder rather than standing alone. Almost all workers have the right to form and belong to unions, and labour laws protect your right to join a union and to participate in union activities.

If you are interested in learning more about organizing a union in your workplace, or want to find out more about how to join a union, contact Local 649 using our Message Form. An established union has the expertise and resources to ensure that your right to organize and join a union is respected by your employer.