The Confederation of Canadian Unions (CCU) is dedicated to the establishment of a democratic, independent Canadian labour movement free of the influence of American-based international unions. The CCU includes almost 20,000 members in affiliated unions in both the public and private sector. Our members represent a diversity of talents: health care workers, forestry workers, researchers, university staff, communications experts, construction workers and administrative personnel, just to name a few.
Joining a labour union is one of the best and influential decisions a worker can make in his or her life. Unions have a long history of protecting the rights of workers, fighting for social justice and equality, and bettering the working lives of millions of Canadians.
The long-term benefits of becoming a member of a union are enormous. Statistics show that in Canada, workers have far better working conditions, an average of 29% higher pay, superior benefits and pensions, longer paid vacation time, and safer and more democratic and egalitarian workplaces.
This so-called “union advantage” is even higher for women, People of Colour, persons with special needs, and part-time employees.
