Monday, September 1, 2025

Why Unions Matter to Young People in Canada

An insight into the role unions play for the newest generation of Canadian workers

By Daniel Walessa, Representative Intern

For the next generation of workers, unions in Canada are held in high esteem as beacons of protection for labourers, labour rights, and as a collective voice of change. Union participation has seen a resurgence in recent decades championed by the next generation of workers.

As life in Canada continues to grow more challenging, an increasing number of young workers are recognizing the value unions provide. As of today, nearly 90 percent of my generation (generation Z) supports unions and would like to see a union involved in their workplace. In the eyes of young workers, unions represent justice, opportunity, and change through collective action.

Arguably, unions today matter more for this generation than any other. With rising housing costs, reduced benefits offered by companies, increasing competition in the job market, and a slowing economy, it’s difficult for young people entering the workforce. In Ontario, workers aged 15 to 19 have the highest unemployment rate of any age group—over 20 percent unemployment—which has made saving for postsecondary education, paying rent, and even affording daily living costs a struggle.

In this regard, it is incredibly important for young workers to feel they are treated fairly at work and to know their employer is being held accountable. Even with all of Ontario’s labour laws, most workers—especially young workers—would not have the resources to fight a wrongful termination, so having a union to keep employers honest is of tremendous value for today’s generation.

Equally importantly, unions play a large role in working with employers to promote health and safety. Language in collective agreements mandating safe work practices and providing allowances for personal protective equipment (PPE) gives everyone the ability to work in a safe environment. This protection extends beyond just physical safety as unions play a key role in encouraging inclusion and eliminating discrimination and racism from the workforce.

Unions are also an excellent resource for those who are still learning about the industry they work in. CLAC is helping support young workers in the trades through scholarship funds, job placements for apprentices, special skills classes, as well as guidance and tutoring through our Forge Your Future program. This program aims to help apprentices pass their certificate of qualification and become a journeyperson in their respective trade.

Services like these can give a backing to apprentices, providing them with the best chance for success. With only 36 percent of Red Seal apprentices completing their certification in Ontario due to increasingly challenging standards and outside pressures, union backing of apprentices has never been more essential.

Additionally, unions offer their younger members an increased sense of community and collaboration, which is pivotal during the early stages of their careers. Through union stewards, new workers have someone who they can rely on if they feel unsure when they are starting out their career or if they are unfamiliar about a company practice. Union practices such as labour management meetings, bargaining, and ratifying collective agreements are all unique ways that help young people become more involved in their workplace and work together to help create a positive environment for everyone.

In summary, unions are especially important for gen Z today. They help improve work standards in an increasingly competitive labour market, provide security and education for young workers, and forge stronger work communities, allowing new workers to be more involved and succeed in their new roles.

Sources: aflcio.org, policyalternatives.ca, oncat.ca

Why Unions Matter to Young People in Canada

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