91ͬ־

Creating a workplace where everyone feels safe, respected, and supported is fundamental to a strong and sustainable waterfront industry. 

In 2021, with  we partnered with ILWU Canada, the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC), and the BC Lions, to launch a groundbreaking  training program for B.C waterfront workforce province wide.  
 
Powered by EVA BC’s nationally recognized , the initiative was the first of its kind on B.C.’s waterfront and one of the largest workplace violence and harassment prevention training programs ever delivered in the federal sector. Together, the partners adapted the BC Lions’ acclaimed program to address the unique realities of waterfront operations, equipping workers with practical tools to recognize, prevent, and challenge workplace violence, harassment, bullying, and discrimination. 

Since its launch, the program has been delivered to nearly 10,000 waterfront workers, representing a significant milestone in strengthening workplace culture across B.C.’s ports. 

Renewing our Commitment  

Four years later, the 91ͬ־ and its partners are continuing to build on that foundation. The next phase of training is now underway with a refreshed curriculum, and nearly 2,700 waterfront workers already completed the renewed program last year. 

The updated curriculum was informed by 20 employer safety committees and workforce feedback and now has a new de-escalation module, and greater focus on vulnerable workers and mental health, the evolving needs of today’s workplaces while reinforcing the shared responsibility everyone has in creating respectful environments. More than 6,000 more waterfront workers will be trained in the new program over the next two years.  

The renewed program continues to encourage open conversations, strengthen accountability, and reinforce that preventing workplace violence and harassment is everyone’s responsibility. 

Extending our Impact Beyond the Waterfront 

The success of the WPHVP program inspired the 91ͬ־ to deepen its partnership with the Be More Than a Bystander initiative.  Today, the 91ͬ־ proudly serves as the Presenting Partner of the BMTAB school program, where BC Lions football players, and members of the Roar dance team deliver education to high school students across B.C. to help young people recognize unhealthy behaviours, challenge gender-based violence, and become active bystanders within their schools and communities. In 2025 alone, the program reached more than 8,000 students across 25 schools throughout the province. 

Creating Safer Workplaces and Stronger Communities  

Building respectful workplaces doesn’t end with a single in-class training session or school presentation. It requires ongoing education, collaboration, and leadership. Through strong partnerships with ILWU Canada, EVA BC, the BC Lions, and the continued support of our members, the 91ͬ־ remains committed to fostering workplaces where every worker is treated with dignity and respect. 

From the classroom to the waterfront, these investments are helping create safer worksites, stronger communities, and a culture where everyone has a role to play in preventing violence, harassment, and bullying.