Videos: CUPE through the decades

Please note that this page is from our archives. There may be more up-to-date content about this topic on our website. Use our search engine to find out.

We’ve been together for over 50 years.

We do different jobs that require different skills. We are diverse – from all sorts of backgrounds in all corners of the country.

But we’re connected by a common purpose. Together we’ve fought for the things that matter most: Fairness. Equality. Dignity.

For a voice. For more political and economic power. For a better place to live and raise our kids.

We are 627,000 public service workers. We are neighbours. We are family. We are strong.

We are CUPE.

1963 - 1972

Two national public-sector unions join as one and the Canadian labour movement is transformed.



1973 - 1982

In a decade of social upheaval, CUPE becomes a powerful voice of fairness for public employees, and for Canadians everywhere.



1983 - 1992

A strong and united CUPE confronts a right-wing assault on working people and the public sector.

 



1993 - 2002

As conservative forces dig in, two things become clear: we have a long battle ahead and CUPE is more than equal to the challenge.

 



2003 - 2012

A decade marked by economic inequality and attacks on our rights finds us stronger than ever: celebrating our 50th year, and taking on our biggest challenges yet.