In a historic move, workers at Canna Cabana Davie St. have united and joined forces with UFCW 1518, becoming the latest members of the BC Budtender Union—a growing movement of cannabis workers in British Columbia who are fighting for fairness across the industry. The workers at Canna Cabana Davie St. are not only joining the growing number of unionized Canna Cabana’s across Canada, but also a family of 28,000 workers across BC and the Yukon who are fighting for fairness in their workplaces.
Staff at Canna Cabana were driven to organize as a show of solidarity with their colleagues—fighting back against the unique pressures associated with the cannabis industry, including low wages, minimal protections, and limited job security. The decision to unite under UFCW 1518 membership came from the workers’ collective efforts for stronger workplace protections and recognition for the unique role of Budtenders in British Columbia.
I’m truly hoping that we can get our foot in the door and fight for proper rights for the workplace. Above all else, I miss having a proper work schedule, and being able to actually afford to live. Their retaliation to us wanting more rights truly exposed the true colors of this company.”
“Canna Cabana workers have taken the first step towards building a better workplace, and we are thrilled to welcome them as our newest members,” states UFCW 1518 President Kim Novak. “These workers have united with the goal of securing stronger workplace protections, improved wages, and respect for the vital role they play in Canna Cabana’s success.“
Among the motivating factors for joining the union were concerns about stagnant wages, lack of workplace protections, and the desire to secure a fair contract which respects the unique role they play in BC’s retail sector. Canna Cabana employees recognize the need for collective action to effect change and are committed to fighting alongside other BC Budtender Union members to secure a better deal for thousands of workers across the province.
“These workers are committed to building a fair, equitable workplace, and UFCW 1518 is ready to stand with them in addressing the unique challenges they face,” says Novak. “They are not alone in this fight – they join the growing BC Bud division of our union who are members working together in the fight to raise the standard for budtenders across our province.”
The BC Budtender Union is a growing division of UFCW 1518, a movement comprised of tens of thousands of workers in BC’s retail sector. These members are working together to change this and revolutionize the Cannabis industry. Want to learn more about the movement?
Check out our website at ufcw1518.com/cannabis and follow UFCW 1518 on Facebook and Instagram.