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B.C.-based budtenders first private cannabis workers to unionize

Budtenders at Clarity Cannabis have joined UFCW 1518, making them the first cannabis workers at a private dispensary to unionize in Canada.

According to a statement released by the union on Feb. 18, the B.C.-based budtenders connected with the organization expressing concerns regarding fair wages, a respectful workplace, safety and security, and training opportunities.

“I am passionate about the work I do, but I honestly couldn’t afford to keep doing it,” said Adelaide Wilder, one of the budtenders who has joined the union. “Budtending requires research and experience to do well, we’d like to look at it as a long-term opportunity. Joining a union is going to help us make that a reality.”

UFCW Local 1518 represents more than 24,000 members working in the community health, hospitality, retail, grocery, industrial, and professional sectors across British Columbia.

Clarity Cannabis has seven dispensary locations throughout British Columbia, including three locations in Victoria.