About Us
Janitors in Winnipeg are organizing to win better and safer working conditions by joining SEIU.
SEIU Local 2 represents over 10,000 janitors (contracted janitors / cleaners) in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Together we are fighting for improved working conditions like better pay, health benefits, fair workloads, pension plans, more paid time off and more.
Over 20,000 workers from various sectors across Canada have joined forces in our Union. Learn more about us on our Who We Are page.
Worker Voices
Below are statements that preceded the ratification of the Union Contract. Updated statements coming soon.
“I have four children and a wife. My expenses include dental, hydro, car insurance, mobile phone, Wi-Fi, and more. It’s too much. The wage increase will help me with these expenses.”
Dawit Habte, Dexterra Cleaner, Winnipeg
Rachel Adior, Dexterra Cleaner,, Winnipeg
“It took courage to win our union. The wage increase will help me buy shoes, clothing, and food, which will help a lot.”
Negese Awe, Dexterra Cleaner, Winnipeg
“The cost of medication or going to the dentist is so high. Because of our union, my co-workers and I have won company paid extended medical benefits for full and part-time workers in our contract.”
Cherry Patatag, GDI Cleaner, Ottawa
Laurent Poirier, Bee-Clean Cleaner, Ottawa
“No worker should have to show up to work sick. Winning paid sick and personal days and negotiating to increase this in bargaining makes a real difference.”
Kristina Guat, Bee-Clean & GDI Cleaner, Ottawa
The Union Advantage
There are many advantages to forming a Union, including better wages and benefits; respect and fair treatment; safer and healthier workplaces; improved job security; and a voice work at the workplace. Learn more about the Union Advantage.
Forming a Union
What does it take? How does the process work? What are our rights?
Why doesn’t the boss want a union? What if the boss says we don’t need interference by a third party or that they want a chance to make improvements before we join a union? What legal protections do we have during our union drive?