Our union is built on 80 years of our hard-working members bargaining tough contracts, opposing unjust laws, pushing back against government cuts that target working people, and speaking out for public health care.
And above all, fighting for decent working and caring conditions -- just like we do today.
HEU was formed in 1944, with 400 members in one hospital. The Canadian labour movement was in its earliest days. B.C. had only recently passed a law that gave unions full rights to organize and represent workers.
Today we have more than 60,000 members in every acute care facility in B.C., in the community, and in more than 200 long-term care facilities.
HEU's 80th anniversary history book
Stories, photos and images of courage, hard work and solidarity over eight decades of standing up for the rights of working people.
The story of HEU
HEU's strength comes from its members. It's as true today as it was at the very beginning.