Canadian Union of Public Employees

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) is Canada's largest trade union, representing over 800,000 workers primarily in the public sector, though it has expanded to include non-profit and para-public sectors. Headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, CUPE's core mission is to enhance the quality of life for Canadian workers by advocating for their rights, promoting social justice, and fighting for equality.

CUPE provides a wide range of services to its members, including collective bargaining to secure improved wages, benefits, and working conditions, as well as advocating for progressive labor and social legislation. The union represents workers across 11 diverse sectors, with significant presence in health care, education (K-12 and post-secondary), municipalities, libraries, universities, social services, public utilities, transportation, emergency services, and airlines.

As of July 2026, CUPE continues to be led by National President Mark Hancock and National Secretary-Treasurer Candace Rennick, both recently re-elected. The union maintains a strong market position as a leading advocate for public services and against privatization. Recent activities include launching a national appeal to support communities affected by wildfires, WestJet cabin crew voting overwhelmingly for strike action, and the ratification of a new collective agreement between CUPE 951 and the University of Victoria. CUPE has also been vocal in condemning job cuts in school boards and nursing cuts in hospitals.