Delegates from CUPE Local 998 joined thousands of CUPE members from across the country at this year’s National Convention, where we came together to celebrate our successes, share strategies, and chart the course for CUPE’s future.
This year’s convention was especially memorable, as CUPE announced a major milestone — we have officially surpassed 800,000 members nationwide. At a time when workers’ rights, wages, and public services are under constant attack, that number represents more than growth , it’s proof that workers across Canada are choosing to stand together for fairness, respect, and better working conditions.
Convention in Review
The week was packed with meaningful discussions, learning, and solidarity. It opened with orientation sessions for new delegates and sector meetings that allowed members from across the country to connect and share experiences from their workplaces.
Through the week, delegates debated resolutions, reviewed constitutional changes, and heard from guest speakers who inspired action and solidarity. Forums focused on health and safety, human rights, equity, and international solidarity, giving members space to share challenges and solutions across sectors.
One of the most powerful moments came during the midweek rally, where delegates took to the streets to show support for public services and fair treatment for all workers. The convention closed on a strong note with a renewed commitment to organizing, mobilizing, and building worker power in every corner of the country.
Building Strength Through Organizing
Since our last National Convention, CUPE has welcomed tens of thousands of new members into our union family — including more than 1,500 firefighters in Quebec, 1,200 clerical workers at Trillium Health in Toronto, and 1,200 cabin crew members at Porter Airlines. CUPE also celebrated the creation of its first local in the Yukon, representing 65 Air North flight attendants and crew.
These organizing victories show what’s possible when CUPE locals, staff, and members work together to grow our movement and extend union protection to more workers. Each new local strengthens our collective voice and our ability to fight back against privatization and corporate attacks on public services.
A Growing Voice for Workers
Across the country, CUPE members are pushing back against privatization, contracting out, and cuts to public services. We’re advocating for better wages, stronger benefits, and safer workplaces. Every resolution debated and every action planned at convention reflects CUPE’s commitment to defending public ownership and improving the lives of working people.
Our collective strength comes from the solidarity we build every day ,from our locals to our national campaigns ,and CUPE 998 continues to play a proud part in that movement.
Looking Ahead
With one million members on the horizon, CUPE remains Canada’s largest and strongest union — and we’re only getting stronger. The National Convention reminded us that our success depends on unity, solidarity, and the shared belief that every worker deserves respect and a fair deal.
As your CUPE 998 delegates return home, we bring renewed energy and new ideas to strengthen our local, support our members, and continue fighting for public power and good jobs for all.
Together, we are 800,000 strong — and still rising.
CUPE Local 998 has been recognized with the Communications Award for Best Use of Digital Tools for its Keep Hydro Public campaign. This campaign showcased the local’s ability to engage members and the broader community through strong, consistent digital messaging that championed public ownership of Manitoba Hydro.
