Partner Spotlight: How BCGEU Fights for Fair Jobs and Housing
In this interview with BCGEU researcher Liam McClure, learn about the union’s efforts to protect good jobs, advocate for essential public services, and support sustainable community development. The BCGEU’s Affordable BC Campaign, launched in 2017, is taking bold steps to make affordable housing accessible by promoting land value capture, vacancy control, and direct funding for public housing. Additionally, BCGEU’s latest project near Royal Oak Skytrain station combines union offices with affordable rental units, aiming to provide below-market housing options for BC residents. With a strong focus on reducing housing and economic insecurity, the BCGEU is paving the way for new models of labor and community-led housing initiatives.
Addressing Poverty and Precarity: An Interview with the BC Poverty Reduction Coalition Director
In this interview with the Provincial Director of the BC Poverty Reduction Coalition, we explore their work addressing poverty and job precarity across British Columbia. The director shares insights from their background in frontline work, including shelter housing and harm reduction, as well as their personal experience living with a disability. They highlight key poverty reduction measures like affordable housing, food security, paid sick leave, free public transit, and migrant rights. The Coalition is currently working on election campaigns for free transit for youth, raising income assistance and disability rates, and expanding affordable housing.
Partner Spotlight: Solving the Affordability Crisis in BC
In this interview, Anastasia French from Living Wage for Families BC discusses the affordability crisis in British Columbia, where soaring rent and food costs are pushing workers into poverty. Despite recent wage increases, 1 in 3 workers still earn below the living wage, with women and racialized communities hit the hardest. Anastasia shares her passion for wage justice and the need for BC to adopt policies that raise wages, lower costs, and address systemic inequalities. With the upcoming election, discover how Anastasia and her team are fighting for a fairer, more livable BC.
How Gig Worker Research is Shaping Labour Rights in BC
Discover how gig worker research is influencing labour rights in British Columbia through an insightful interview with Denise Moffatt, Director of Government Relations at the BC Federation of Labour (BCFED). Denise discusses her role in the Understanding Precarity in BC (UP-BC) Project, highlighting the critical work being done to address the challenges faced by ride-hail and food delivery workers. Learn about the comprehensive research spearheaded by BCFED, which includes focus groups, interviews, and surveys that have been instrumental in advocating for stronger employment standards and workers’ compensation coverage.
Justice for Janitors: SEIU Local 2’s Fight for Job Security in Vancouver
Discover the impactful work of SEIU Local 2, a dynamic private-sector labour union in Vancouver, BC and learn how they empower janitors through the Justice for Janitors campaign. This initiative has transformed the lives of thousands by securing a city-wide collective agreement, advocating for job security, and addressing the precarious nature of work. Gain insights from Alicia Massie, SEIU Local 2’s Research Coordinator, as she shares the union’s efforts to combat job precarity and her excitement about the potential of sectoral bargaining to revolutionize unionization in BC and Canada.
Partner Spotlight – Championing Domestic Care Workers’ Rights
Discover the impactful journey of the Vancouver Committee for Domestic Workers and Caregivers Rights (CDWCR) in our latest blog post. Founded in 1979 by Filipino community activists, CDWCR has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of domestic workers, many of whom face precarious working conditions and isolation. Learn how the organization emerged from grassroots activism against repressive regimes and evolved into a crucial support system for domestic workers from various countries. Explore their relentless fight for permanent residency for care workers, their success in including domestic work under the Employment Standards Act, and their ongoing efforts to introduce sectoral bargaining to protect isolated workers.
Partner Spotlight – Innovating Solutions: CPAH’s Efforts in Addressing Homelessness
Prince George Community Partners Addressing Homelessness (CPAH) is a partnership consisting of community social service agencies and government representatives, including UNBC. Explore CPAH’s ongoing efforts in empowering change and innovating solutions to address homelessness. Discover their impactful projects and insights gained from working at the forefront of homelessness advocacy.
Partner Spotlight – From Precarity to Power: Insights from Michelle Travis on the Hospitality Industry
An insightful interview with Michelle Travis, Research Director at UNITE HERE Local 40, as she shares her journey of union activism in the hospitality industry and discusses the importance of addressing precarity for workers. Gain valuable insights into current projects and the fight for fair treatment in the workplace in BC.
Partner Spotlight – Navigating Cultural Intersections: Hua Foundation’s Impactful Path Toward Equity
Experience the transformative story of Hua Foundation, narrated by Christina Lee, stemming from the groundbreaking Shark Truth campaign. Delve into their shift towards anti-racism advocacy, championing equity, and amplifying marginalized voices. Witness Christina’s empowering journey, guiding racialized youth towards leadership and resilience for a brighter tomorrow.
Partner Spotlight – Empowering Workers: A Journey with the Worker Solidarity Network
Learn about Pamela Charron’s journey with the Worker Solidarity Network. Discover how their legal advocacy program supports non-unionized workers facing challenges in British Columbia. Dive into their exciting project examining the intersection of precarious employment and climate change. Join us in celebrating our partner’s commitment to empowerment and collective action for a more just future.
Partner Spotlight – Aboriginal Business and Community Development Centre: 26 Years Empowering Indigenous Communities
Explore Indigenous Economic Empowerment with Vincent Prince, Executive Director of ABCDC. Learn about the organization’s history, its role in Indigenous community economic development, and the impact of cultural resilience. Delve into the challenges of precarity faced by Indigenous peoples, historically and today. Gain insights into Vincent Prince’s vision for long-term solutions and the connection between cultural heritage and breaking free from precarious work.
