In 2025, spurred by growing demands from members for greater transparency, influence, and accountability in our union's collective bargaining process, CAPE embarked on a new model of bargaining, one that puts our contract outcomes back into the hands of all members.
That model is Open Bargaining.
What Is Open Bargaining?
Open Bargaining is a collaborative, member-driven process that dramatically increases rank and file participation in negotiations. It replaces closed-door discussions with open, democratic engagement, where members help shape proposals, sit at the bargaining table, and directly influence bargaining strategy.
This approach is grounded in one belief: our strength at the table depends on how much collective power we’ve built.
Unions that adopt Open Bargaining routinely secure some of the strongest contracts in their sector, not just on wages, but on groundbreaking workplace protections and new rights for their members.
Why CAPE Chose Open Bargaining
CAPE chose to launch Open Bargaining in 2025 to meet the moment. Our members asked for more voice and ownership in the negotiation of their working conditions, and this model puts them in the driver’s seat.
- Open Bargaining brings
- Transparency: Continuous information flow on bargaining developments
- Democracy: Participate directly in shaping demands
- Power in numbers: A more engaged membership means a stronger bargaining position
This isn’t just a communications tool: it’s a structural change in how we negotiate. And it’s designed to win.
Summer and Fall Preparations 2025-2026
The Open Bargaining process officially kicks off in September 2025, but preparation is already underway. Throughout the summer, CAPE is hosting information sessions across locals to introduce the model, answer questions, and get members directly involved right away in shaping their eventual contract.
These sessions are open to all CAPE members and are tailored by local, so everyone has a chance to speak, listen, and get involved.
How can you participate?
Several opportunities will be offered to our members to participate in the open bargaining process for the upcoming round of negotiations.
Attend your local’s virtual info session
- Find your local’s date and RSVP using the registration form provided
- Spread the word
Talk to your coworkers. Bring a colleague to the session. Share our invites. - Get ready for September
Open Bargaining doesn’t work without you. Be informed, be involved, and be ready to lead.
No Local? No Problem.
Don’t have a local? No worries. All Open Bargaining info sessions are held online, and you’re welcome to sign up for any session that’s closest to your department or most convenient for your schedule.
Everyone has a place at the table. Pick the session that works best for you and join the conversation.
View upcoming sessions and register here
This Is Your Moment!
We get stronger every time members connect with each other and take responsibility for their own contracts. Through Open Bargaining, CAPE members are systematically building their own leverage, defining democratically what good work looks like, and preparing to fight for and win the best contract we’ve ever had.
