The BCTF invites seven (7) teachers from the general membership to participate in the union's delegation to the 17th Trinational Conference in Defense of Public Education. The guiding theme for the conference is: United to Defend Public Education & Our Rights, for a Future of Peace and Social Justice. Activities will take place from November 12–15, 2026.
The Trinational Coalition, formed in 1993, brings together activists from teacher unions in Canada, Mexico, and the United States to work together on issues related to the impact of neo-liberal policies on public education. A cornerstone of this work is the biennial Trinational Conference to Defend Public Education, where researchers and teacher and student activists gather to plan common actions for the next two years.
This year’s theme will include in-depth discussions on topics such as the rise of fascism around the world; what counts as knowledge in the age of artificial intelligence; how labour fights back for workers amid escalating precarity and violence; and concrete strategies for resistance and building a future of peace and social justice. The conference is being hosted by the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF) in Toronto, Ontario.
The shape of activities during the delegation is:
Nov 11 Delegates travel to Toronto
Nov 12 Full-day training session for Canadian delegates at the OSSTF offices
Nov 13 Organized school and community visits; interest-based meetings; opening of the conference
Nov 14 Workshops
Nov 15 Plenary; conference declaration; delegates travel home
To apply you must be an active BCTF member (e.g. not on leave). Final selection will be made by the BCTF Full-Time Table Officers (FTTOs) who will give priority to first-time participants and consider the following criteria:
- knowledge of key socio-political and economic issues relevant to the conference
- alignment with the BCTF's International Solidarity approach
- union leadership and involvement
- geographic representation
- representation of members from equity-deserving groups
- commitment to sharing learning and participating in actions after the conference.
Important: An international delegation is a unique opportunity to learn from the experiences and expertise of partner unions as well as fellow delegates. There are many opportunities for rich dialogue and exchange, but this is not a guided trip or tourist experience. The days can be long and tiring and there may not be much “free” time. At meetings with exclusively BCTF members, the union uses our Commitment to Solidarity to guide our work and our relationships. On international delegations, we are a group of BCTF members who have been invited as guests to engage with partners and community groups and will continue to use these principles to guide our work together. All participants will be expected to actively participate in all delegation activities (where active participation also includes listening and holding space for diverse views) and respond to changes and challenges with flexibility. Delegates will also be asked to recognize and critically reflect on power dynamics and imbalances in their own positions and relationships and engage in cultural humility by reflecting on their own backgrounds and how these impact beliefs and practices.
To apply please send an application to international@bctf.ca by Sunday, September 20, at 5:00 p.m. PT.
All costs associated with participating in the delegation, including release time and travel costs, will be covered by the BCTF.