When Canadian unions united to defend and advance workers’ rights
By the 1970s, Canadian workers had secured legal recognition of their right to unionize and bargain collectively. But as history shows, having rights on paper doesn’t always translate to fairness in practice.
In this third part of our series, we explore how unions in Canada mobilized to protect workers against wage controls, corporate resistance, and government policies that threatened to erode hard-won gains. The following events highlight how collective action remained a powerful force in pushing back against inequity.
1972 – The Common Front Strikes in Quebec: Unity in Action
In 1972, three major public sector unions in Quebec, representing over 200,000 workers, formed a coalition known as the Front Commun (Common Front). Frustrated by stagnant wages and rising inflation, they presented a united front in negotiations with the provincial government.
When talks broke down, the Common Front launched a general strike, effectively shutting down schools, hospitals, and public services across Quebec. Tensions escalated when union leaders were jailed for defying court injunctions, sparking spontaneous walkouts and demonstrations in solidarity.
While the strikes eventually ended with negotiated settlements, they marked one of the most significant displays of union strength in Canadian history.
Why It Matters:
The Common Front strikes demonstrated how solidarity across unions, and sectors, could amplify workers’ voices. It also underscored the political power of organized labour in shaping public policy.
1986 – The Gainers Meatpacking Strike: Fighting Corporate Pushback
The mid-1980s brought economic challenges, and some employers sought to roll back wages and union protections. One of the most notorious examples was at Gainers, a meatpacking plant in Edmonton, Alberta.
When the company demanded steep wage cuts and benefit reductions, over 1,000 workers, members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) went on strike. The employer, with support from the provincial government, brought in replacement workers (“scabs”) and sought to break the union.
The strike lasted for months, drawing national attention to aggressive anti-union tactics. Although the workers didn’t achieve all their demands, the strike became a symbol of resistance against corporate attempts to undermine labour rights.
Why It Matters:
The Gainers strike highlighted the vulnerability of workers during economic downturns and the lengths some employers would go to weaken unions. It also reinforced the importance of collective resilience in the face of systemic pressure.
When Collective Power Meets Resistance
The 1970s and 1980s were decades of both strength and struggle for Canadian labour. Unions proved they could mobilize on a massive scale, but they also faced growing opposition from employers and governments seeking to limit union influence.
These events serve as a reminder that labour rights are not static. They require ongoing advocacy, especially when external forces push back against worker protections.
At Nelligan Law, we recognize the importance of solidarity in navigating these challenges. Whether advising during strikes, negotiating collective agreements, or defending against unfair labour practices, our team is dedicated to supporting unions and workers facing resistance.
In the final part of our series, we’ll explore how legal decisions and modern disputes continue to shape the landscape of labour rights in Canada.
If your union or workplace is dealing with complex labour challenges, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@nelliganlaw.ca.
Image credit: Archives of Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN) of Québec
