How to join a union
The first step is to call or email the United Steelworkers union: djalbert@usw.ca or call: 613-362-4414. We can help to unionize your workplace quickly, discreetly and effectively. You have the right to join a union and that right is legally-protected. You cannot be disciplined, terminated or retaliated against for joining a union. Your conversation with our union organizer is 100% confidential.
UNIONIZE YOUR WORKPLACE IN THREE STEPS:
Have the majority of employees sign membership cards in favour of joining the USW!
One of our organizers will be dedicated to your organizing drive and will assist you in getting your co-workers to sign union cards- helping to inform them of the benefits of joining a union for them and their families. CARD SIGNING IS 100% CONFIDENTIAL. Your employer never sees who has signed union cards or the list of card signers.
File an Application.
After the majority of workers sign union cards in favour of joining the USW, our organizer files an application with the Labour Relations Board to hold a representation vote to ‘certify’ the USW as your union.
VOTE YES!
Once the application is submitted, the Labour Board will conduct a secret ballot vote within five business days. When the majority of workers vote in favour of joining the USW, you will be certified as your own union - congratulations.
NOW THAT YOU ARE UNIONIZED…
USW will provide you with an experienced Staff Representative who will help negotiate your first contract with a set of co-workers you elect to represent you at the bargaining table. A union contract sets out the wages, benefits, working conditions, job security and your rights in the workplace in writing.
When the contract has been negotiated, your employer signs on the dotted line and is legally-bound by the terms of your contract. Your contract is what gives you a real, meaningful voice at work.
YOUR RIGHTS
All workers have a right to join a union. That right is protected under both federal and provincial labour law, the Canadian Charter of Human Rights and Canada’s Constitution.
Under provincial and federal employment laws, you also have the right to propose that your fellow workers become members of a trade union and to participate in forming a union.
The USW considers these rights fundamental in a democracy and will fight to protect them.
USW can help you and your fellow workers get fair wages, benefits and job protection, and help eliminate discrimination, harassment or intimidation in the workplace.