Creating equity

Changes in the workforce have demanded that unions remain representative and responsive. By applying the principles of equality, justice, dignity and respect within the union, the United Steelworkers has promoted human rights since its beginning. Steelworkers understand that everyone is entitled to the same rights and freedoms, regardless of race, religion, gender, age or sexual orientation.

Human Rights Committee Guide

Calendar of religious and special days

Use this calendar to recognize special holidays of many faiths and plan local union meetings and events so that all members may attend.

Human rights & equity photos

View the Human Rights & Equity photo gallery on Flickr.

Featured resources

D6 LGBTQ2SIA+ Inclusion Tool

July 27, 2022
D6 LGBTQ2SIA+ Inclusion Tool

USW Bargaining Guide for Advancing Indigenous Rights – Revised June 2022

Booklets & Manuals • Reports • Research & Publications
July 20, 2017
USW Bargaining Guide for Advancing Indigenous Rights – Revised June 2022

Equality Agenda: Our Policy on Human Rights

Policy
August 4, 2010
Equality Agenda: Our Policy on Human Rights

News

Image for USW condemns decision to abolish the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise

USW condemns decision to abolish the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise

June 19, 2026 | Statements

TORONTO – The problem with the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE) was that it was never given the independence and powers it needed to do the job properly, says the United Steelworkers union (USW). The USW strongly condemns the federal government’s decision to abolish the Office of the CORE. When Canadian companies operating abroad are […]

A group of people holding a a cheque behind a building.

District 6 Women of Steel stand together to end period poverty

June 16, 2026 | News Articles

According to recent Canadian research, one in six people who menstruate do not know whether they can afford the products they need for their next period, highlighting the ongoing need for initiatives like Period Promise, a United Way campaign.  Through their annual collection of menstrual hygiene products and essential personal care items, the United Steelworkers […]

A group of people holding pride flag in from a building

USW Local 5795 invests in community by keeping Family Day tradition alive

June 11, 2026 | News Articles

For United Steelworkers Local 5795, supporting members means supporting the communities they call home. This summer, the local is demonstrating that commitment by ensuring Labrador City’s annual Family Day celebration, taking place on August 22, continues, providing families with an opportunity to come together, create memories and celebrate their community. After cuts were made to […]

More resources

United Steelworkers Statement of Principles on Indigenous Issues

Policy
May 27, 2026
United Steelworkers Statement of Principles on Indigenous Issues

2026 Calendar of Religious and Special Days

Misc. Resources
December 1, 2025
2026 Calendar of Religious and Special Days
Poster with text: March 8, International Women's Day for ALL women and girls.

Poster for March 8, International Women’s Day

Misc. Resources
March 7, 2025
Poster for March 8, International Women’s Day

Hygiene facility regulations and requirements by jurisdiction

Policy
December 16, 2024
Hygiene facility regulations and requirements by jurisdiction
A poster portraying the effects of racism and systemic racism on overall health. There are two racialized people wearing their work outfit in the centre of the poster.

The effects of racism and systemic racism on overall health

Misc. Resources
December 3, 2024
The effects of racism and systemic racism on overall health

How unions can support members with family responsibilities

Misc. Resources
October 23, 2024
How unions can support members with family responsibilities

Justice Conference 2024 materials

Booklets & Manuals
September 23, 2024
Justice Conference 2024 materials

Building Trust, Becoming Allies: Practical ways for USW local unions to engage with Indigenous members and Indigenous communities

June 14, 2024
Building Trust, Becoming Allies: Practical ways for USW local unions to engage with Indigenous members and Indigenous communities