This workshop is an introduction to the laws that apply to workplaces in BC, and gives activists a very brief introduction to topics that are covered in more detail in other union courses.

Participants will learn about fundamental principles of trade unionism and the structure of the federal and provincial trade union organizations, so workers can see where they fit; Next is an overview of the Constitution Acts, the Charter, the division of powers between federal and provincial governments (so activists can identify appropriate applicable laws for their workplace).

Then we discuss Employment Standards, Workplace health and safety legislation and human rights. The course finishes with the role collective agreements play in regulating workplaces and how they are made through collective bargaining.

Presented for BCGEU members by Adrienne Smith, a Vancouver-based lawyer with a labour, human rights, and social justice practice.