Taking a Stand

Bring labour history into your classroom with these lesson plans and activities.

Compiled by Canada’s History

 — Posted October 7, 2019

2019 marks the one hundredth anniversary of the Winnipeg General Strike, providing a timely opportunity to look back at stories of work and workers in Canada. Bring labour history into your classroom with these lesson plans and activities.

Sleeping Car Porters

In this lesson, students will analyze artifacts to learn about the experiences of Black sleeping car porters on the job. 

Workers' Rights: Where do you Stand?

In this activity, students will learn about Madeleine Parent and the history of workers’ rights in Canada.

Differing Perspectives on the Winnipeg General Strike

In this activity, students will analyze multiple accounts of the Winnipeg General Strike, noting important similarities and differences in the points of view they represent.

Exploring the role of Black Fur Traders

In these activities students will demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the role of Black fur traders.

The Historical Exploration Continues

This lesson focuses on exploring what is known about specific Black fur traders and learning more about their life and character at the Hudson’s Bay Company or North West Company. 

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