A longtime B.C. politician and crusader for workers’ rights is being recognized by Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) for his enduring commitment to British Columbians.
Harry Bains, a former B.C. New Democratic Party MLA and Minister of Labour, will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws during convocation ceremonies at KPU Surrey on Feb. 28.
“I am so honoured and humbled to be the recipient of this very prestigious award” says Bains. “I will cherish this award as a lifetime honour.”
Bains moved to Canada from India in 1971. His path into politics began two years later at age 21. While working at a sawmill in Vancouver he experienced discrimination and racism, and became committed to making his workplace safer by participating in his union. He was elected an officer of Steelworkers-IWA Canada Local 2171, going on to serve in union leadership positions for 15 years.
Bains was first elected MLA for Surrey-Newton in 2005 and was re-elected in 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2020. He was appointed Minister of Labour in 2017, allowing him to make changes he had been advocating for.
“From a dedicated advocate for workers’ rights, to serving as British Columbia’s Minister of Labour for seven years, Harry Bains has left an indelible legacy on this province,” says Randall Heidt, Vice-President of External Affairs at KPU.
As Labour Minister, Bains took B.C.’s minimum wage from one of the lowest in Canada to the highest. He also ensured most workers would have access to five paid sick days a year and removed roadblocks for workers to join unions. Bains made improvements to the Workers Compensation Act and prioritized the rights of injured workers. He improved safety for those performing asbestos abatement work and brought successorship provisions into the labour code to provide protection for workers against contract flipping.
Bains also served as Opposition critic for the Ministry of Olympics and Sport, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. In 2024 Bains retired from politics to spend more time with his family.
Bains served on the KPU Board of Governors from 1993 to 1999, including three years as vice-chair.
“I always believe that the best gift one can give to anyone is the gift of education, as education is the best way to create equality in our society,” says Bains. “I am so proud to say that KPU is delivering that opportunity to our community.”