Trinity Western University Faculty Unionize
Langley, BC—The majority of Trinity Western University (TWU) faculty have chosen to form a union, selecting CLAC as their representatives.
The results of the certification vote were revealed March 10, 2023, following numerous submissions and hearings at the British Columbia Labour Relations Board (BCLRB). Sixty-four percent of faculty who participated in the vote cast ballots in favour of the union.
The representation vote was conducted in October 2021, but the ballots were sealed as the university challenged the union’s application for certification. The BCLRB ultimately dismissed the university’s challenge and shared the long-awaited results of the vote.
“TWU faculty demonstrated incredible patience waiting for the results of this vote,” says Nathan Mathews, CLAC representative. “We are very pleased to deliver positive news.”
For the faculty involved in the unionization drive, including many long term, tenured professors, certification represents a natural step in the progression of the university.
“Faculty have committed to making TWU a world-class educational institution, and we need to ensure it is a healthy and vibrant place to work,” says Robynne Healey, PhD, professor of history.
“We are seeking an equitable partnership with the university,” adds Chad Friesen, PhD, professor of chemistry.
Throughout the unionization drive, faculty affirmed CLAC’s progressive, cooperative labour relations model as the best choice for their workplace to ensure they have a voice in decisions that impact their working conditions.
“The faculty are deeply committed to their community and students, and invested in the long term success of TWU,” says Mathews. “We believe a modern labour relations framework will help create new supports and structures that will enhance the well-being of the university’s current and future educators.”
As the union organizing drive has concluded, CLAC, faculty, and the university will now begin the collective bargaining process to secure their first collective agreement.