Harry Bains, the current Minister of Labour in British Columbia and the long-serving NDP MLA for Surrey-Newton, is a remarkable figure in Canadian politics. His story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to social justice and equality. From his humble beginnings in a small village in India to becoming a powerful voice for workers and immigrants in Canada, Harry Bains’ journey is nothing short of inspirational.
Harry Bains: Early Life and Struggles as an Immigrant
Born in the village of Hardaspur near Phagwara in Punjab, India, Harry Bains’ early life was shaped by the values of hard work and perseverance.
After completing his college education in Phagwara, Harry Bains made the life-changing decision to move to Canada in 1971. He landed in Vancouver with hopes and dreams of building a better future, not just for himself but for the generations that would follow. However, the path to success was far from easy.
Like many immigrants before him, Harry faced significant challenges upon his arrival in Canada. He spent his first few years working in a foundry in Ontario before moving to British Columbia, where he took up work in a sawmill.
It was during these years that Bains encountered the harsh realities of racism and discrimination. He recalls the daily confrontations and abuse that immigrants like him endured. Whether it was the open hostility on the streets or the discriminatory practices in the workplace, the challenges were constant and disheartening.
One particularly jarring incident at a sawmill in South Vancouver left a lasting impact on Bains. He vividly remembers the racist graffiti in the lunchroom that segregated “Hindu curry” from the “white men” and warned immigrants to stay out.
This blatant act of racism stirred something deep within him. Encouraged by a fellow worker, Bains brought the issue to the attention of the union chairperson and the management. This small act of defiance and the positive outcome that followed ignited a fire within him. It was this experience that propelled him into activism and set him on the path to becoming a champion for workers’ rights.
Rising Through the Ranks: From Union Activist to Political Leader
Harry Bains’ journey from a sawmill worker to a full-time union official is a testament to his dedication to improving the lives of those around him. His involvement with Steelworkers-IWA Canada Local 2171 was more than just a job; it was a calling.
For over fifteen years, Bains served as an elected officer of the union, most recently as the full-time vice president of his local chapter. In this role, he was at the forefront of negotiations, bargaining tirelessly to secure better wages, improved working conditions, and greater safety for workers.
His work with the union was not just about advocating for individual rights; it was about building a collective strength that could challenge the systemic injustices faced by workers and immigrants.
Bains’ leadership and commitment did not go unnoticed, and it wasn’t long before he began to see the broader implications of his work. The union’s success in securing rights for its members was a microcosm of the larger struggle for equality and justice in Canadian society.
It was this understanding that led Harry Bains to enter the political arena. In 2005, he successfully ran for the Surrey-Newton riding, bringing the issues of his community to the provincial legislature in Victoria.
His election marked a significant moment, not just for him personally, but for the many immigrants and workers who had long been marginalized. As an MLA, Bains was able to give voice to their concerns, advocating for policies that would create a more just and equitable society.
Making History as Minister of Labour
In May 2017, Harry Bains reached a new milestone in his career when he was appointed Minister of Labour by Premier John Horgan. This position has allowed him to take his advocacy work to new heights, giving him the opportunity to shape policies that directly impact the lives of millions of workers across British Columbia. As Minister, Bains has been a staunch advocate for improving workplace safety, enhancing workers’ rights, and ensuring that all employees are treated with dignity and respect.
One of the key initiatives under Bains’ leadership has been the effort to modernize and strengthen the Employment Standards Act, a crucial piece of legislation that governs the rights of workers in the province. His work has focused on ensuring that the laws are fair, inclusive, and reflective of the diverse workforce in British Columbia.
Harry Bains has also been instrumental in promoting initiatives aimed at reducing workplace injuries and fatalities, recognizing that the safety of workers must always be a top priority.
Also Read:Bessika Bucktawor: From Miss Mauritius 2016 to Inspirational Advocate