Canadian Labour Union is founded
Vice-President of the Canadian Labour Union, Daniel J. O’Donoghue. Library and Archives Canada, C-043281
1873
The Canadian Labour Union (CLU) was founded the year after the passage of the Trade Union Act of 1872, which affirmed the legality of unions in Canada. The CLU was the first attempt in Canadian history to bring the country’s various labour unions together under the umbrella of a single labour organization. Although it operated for just 6 years, the CLU marked the increasing strength of unions and provided a model for the Canadian labour movement to follow in later years.
Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.