History of the BCTF

The BC Teachers' Federation was formed as an organization in 1917 and incorporated as a benevolent society in 1919. J. George Lister was the first president, serving from 1917-1918. The BCTF achieved full collective bargaining rights in 1987, and lost the right to strike in 2001 when the BC Liberal government passed essential services legislation.

The history of the organization illustrates its effectiveness in working for the rights of teachers and students in promoting public education.

• History of the BCTF from 1919 to 2001.   Excerpt from the 2001-02 BCTF Members' Guide.
• A quick look at some of our past struggles - bargaining history timeline  
• Bargaining history 
• Labour affiliation. In 2006, BC teachers voted 78.2% to join the Canadian Labour Congress and maintain membership in the BC Federation of Labour.