Langley, B.C. – Last month, workers at four Highline Mushroom farms in British Columbia made history by organizing and joining the United Food and Commercial Workers 1518 (UFCW 1518). Now their collective strength has grown even stronger. On July 8th, 210 workers at a fifth mushroom farm in Langley have officially organized and joined their counterparts at other Highline farms, becoming the newest members of UFCW 1518. With a total of 390 workers now certified, this union drive marks the largest group of farmworkers to unionize in Canadian history.

These workers have united to address critical workplace priorities, including improved health and safety conditions, fair work environments, fair wages, and comprehensive benefits.

This groundbreaking development sets a new precedent, particularly for migrant agricultural workers who are essential to the agricultural industry, but are also the most vulnerable, often facing long, gruelling hours, labour intensive work, and little to no job security.

“These workers have sent shockwaves through the agri-food industry by exercising their fundamental right to unionize” says Patrick Johnson, President of UFCW 1518. “Migrant workers are essential workers, and they deserve recognition and respect for the vital role they play in the industry. No other group of workers in the country stands to benefit more from the security and voice that a union provides, and we are thrilled to welcome these newest members to the UFCW 1518 family.” 

This historic achievement is a significant step that will radically change the lives of these workers and establish a new standard for the industry. UFCW 1518 is committed to bargaining a fair contract that guarantees these workers the fundamental rights and respect they deserve for their critical role in Canada’s agricultural industry.

Our union looks forward to working with Highline Mushrooms, and its parent company, Sumitomo, to uphold and support the rights of these workers while continuing to build socially sustainable supply chains for the agri-food sector.