Published in: Urban (In)Security: Policing the Neoliberal Crisis

Published by the Health Sciences Association of BC

From Jan. 20 to Feb. 7, 2020, Health Sciences Association members identifying as Black, Indigenous, or People of Colour (BIPOC) were invited to complete an online survey investigating experiences of racism at work. Critically, the survey asked BIPOC members to weigh in on what actions can be taken by the union to support members affected by racism. The report looks at the overt and subtle ways racism operates within workplace cultures through examining the comments and behaviours members are exposed to. It analyzes how discrimination operates at an institutional level and erects barriers to career growth and professional development. It explores the psychological impacts of racism at work, and the ways in which racism is maintained through a culture of white supremacy that reduces accountability and opportunities for recourse. 

Published by the Health Sciences Association of BC

In December 1969, a small group of paramedical professionals came together with a shared vision to pursue collective bargaining rights. Through peer outreach, word of mouth, and the help of a travelling Volkswagen van, paramedical professionals from  across the province were recruited into the newly formed Health Sciences Association.

What began as a meeting of health care workers representing just six professions from a handful of hospitals has transformed into an organization representing 22,000 members across more than 70 professions in health care and community social services. This tremendous growth over the course of five decades highlights how a small group of people can spark remarkable change. In this commemorative publication, we honour the vision of those individuals as well as all the members over the years who have contributed to the development of HSA - uniting professionals delivering modern health and social services in all corners of the province.

Published by the Society of United Professionals

The union's beginnings were seeded in 1944, when a group of engineers and scientists from the Hydro-Electric Power Commission of Ontario (HEPCO), later known as Ontario Hydro, came together to form a professional association. They understood that if they worked together, they could make gains in their workplace conditions and standards of living. That association transformed over time to adapt for membership growth, workplace change, and an always evolving legal and political landscape.

Now known as the Society of Professionals, what was once a small group of 400 employees is now a robust labour union with 10,000 members. This tremendous growth has happened over the course of 80 years, and is the result of grit and tenacity from countless workplace advocates and union activists.

We look back on our rich history with pride in the achievements we've made for professionals across Ontario's legal, energy, and regulatory sectors.