Group Archives | Solidarity: The Largest Political Protest in British Columbia’s History

The People’s Commission

In 1984 the Solidarity Coalition formed the People’s Commission, travelling around BC to hear community input on the previous year’s legislation and budget. Commissioners seated left to right […]

Teachers on strike

When school boards obtained injunctions against teacher picketing, members of the Solidarity Coalition took their place on the picket lines ensuring that the strike went ahead.

BCTF members on strike

Operation Solidarity planned an escalating province-wide walkout. BC teachers, who had no legal right to strike, took a strike vote anyway and joined the picket lines on November […]

BCGEU members on strike

At midnight on October 31, 1983 forty thousand members of the BCGEU went on strike for a new contract and an end to the government bills attacking union […]

“This Budget Hurts Women” public meeting poster

Many of the Social Credit government’s bills were passed by imposing closure on the legislature and limiting debate, despite widespread concerns about the impact they would have on […]

Social workers, October 15 rally

The October 15 demonstration included unions, professional organizations, community groups and the general public. Patsy George, fired BCGEU member and Solidarity Coalition staff, is smiling at the camera.

BCGEU members, October 15 rally

The October 15 Rally for your Rights became the largest political protest in BC’s history. At far left is Norman Richards, President of the BC Government Employees’ Union.

Candlelight vigil in Victoria

As members of the BC legislature sat around the clock and the government limited debate, members of the Victoria Solidarity Coalition held a candlelight vigil on September 10, […]

Children at the Tenants Tent-In

On October 1, 1983 a “Tenants Tent-In” was held in Vancouver’s Vanier Park to protest cuts to legislation protecting tenants and the end of the Rentalsman’s office.

Picnic Against the Budget

Petitions, rallies and picnics were some of the activities organized during the summer of 1983 by the Solidarity Coalition. While festive, there were many serious matters being addressed […]

Women Against the Budget

Vancouver Status of Women said that the anti-budget fightback was the largest undertaking by BC’s women “since the struggle for the vote”. Many of the women had never […]

Musical performance, Empire Stadium rally

Musical and dramatic performances were part of the electric atmosphere at Empire Stadium in Vancouver on August 10, 1983.