A union gives workers collective strength by standing together with their co-workers instead of dealing issues alone. Facing an employer over unfair treatment, unsafe conditions, wage issues, or violations of labour rights can feel intimidating. A union exists to support you and advocate on your behalf, so you are not on your own. Unionized workplaces often have stronger job security, better benefits, pensions, and clearer workplace protections.

You can take your first step by contacting us and we will put you in touch with one of our affiliated unions that is best suited to your workplace and industry.

Workers usually organize by forming a small group within the workplace that talks to co-workers and builds support for joining a union. You do not have to navigate this process alone. An affiliated union will provide guidance, support, and direction every step of the way.

Under Ontario law, at least 40% of the employees in the proposed bargaining unit must sign a union membership card.  Once this is met the union applies to the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB for a certification vote. TheORLB conducts a secret ballot vote, usually within 5 days of the application. After voting ends the OLRB officer with representatives from both the union and the employer present. Certification is grated if a simple majority of ballots cast are in favour.

Signing a union membership card allows workers to vote on whether they want to be represented by a union and negotiate a collective agreement. A successful vote gives workers bargaining rights related to wages, working conditions, and workplace protections. Workers then can participate in shaping their workplace by being involved in negotiations and decision making.

No. Organizing a union and participating in union activity are legal rights protected under the Ontario Labour Relations Act. It is illegal for an employer to fire, discipline, threaten or penalize a worker for being involved in union activity or for trying to join a union. IF an employer retaliates, the union can help challenge that action under the law.

Notify the union, immediately. The union can file an “Unfair Labour Practice Complaint”, with the OLRB, who in turn has the authority to order any remedies to address violations of the OLRA.

A collective agreement is a legally binding agreement between a union and an employer. It sets out wages hours of work, benefits, working conditions, and workplace rights, as well as clear process for resolving disputes.

Workers meet to identify their priorities and elect a bargaining committee from among themselves. That committee negotiates directly with the employer, supported by experienced union representatives. The bargaining committee leads the process with direction from the workers they represent, ensuring the agreement reflects the needs and priorities of the workplace.

• ACTRA – Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists

• ATU – Amalgamated Transit Union

• BCTGM – Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union 

• BUFA – Brock University Faculty Association

• COPE – Canadian Office and Professional Employees Union

• CUPE – Canadian Union of Public Employees

• CUPW – Canadian Union of Postal Workers

• ETFO – Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario

• IAMAW – International Association of Mechanists and Aerospace Workers 

• IATSE – International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees

• IBEW – International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers

• IFPTE (The Society) – Iron Workers Ontario District Council

• LiUNA – Laborer’s International Union of North America

• Millwrights

• OECTA – Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association

• ONA – Ontario Nurse’s Association

• IUPAT – International Union of Painters & Allied Trades 

• PIPSC – Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada

• PSAC – Public Service Alliance of Canada

• QUFA – Queens University Faculty Association

• Seafarers International Union of North America

• SEIU – Service Employees International Union

• SMW – Sheet Metal Workers & Roffers Conference

• TMA – Toronto Musicians’ Association

• TNG-CWA – The NewsGuild - CWA 

• UA – United Association of Plumbers & Steamfitters

• UAW – United Auto Workers

• UFCW – United Food and Commercial Workers

• Unite Here

• USW – United Steel Workers

• WLUFA – Wilfred Laurier University Faculty Association 

• WUCC – Workers United Canada Council

• YUFA – York University Faculty Association

Joining the OFL is great value for your members’ dues!

Find the OFL affiliation package here: https://ofl.ca/join-the-ofl/