Introduction
Harry Bains represents a remarkable journey of transformation—from a young immigrant arriving at Vancouver International Airport in 1971 to becoming one of British Columbia’s most influential political figures. Currently serving as Surrey City Councillor, Bains previously held the prestigious position of Minister of Labour for British Columbia from 2017 to 2024 and represented Surrey-Newton as an NDP MLA for nearly two decades. His story embodies the Canadian dream while highlighting the ongoing struggle for immigrant rights and social justice. As both a lawyer and seasoned politician, Bains brings over three decades of Surrey residency and deep community understanding to his current role, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the city’s future.
Early Life and Background
Born in the small village of Hardaspur near Phagwara in Punjab’s Kapurthala district, Harry Bains experienced a childhood rooted in rural Indian traditions before embarking on a life-changing journey to Canada. After completing his college education in Phagwara, he made the bold decision to immigrate to Canada in 1971, landing at Vancouver International Airport on June 15th—a date he still remembers vividly.
Bains recalls being immediately struck by Canada’s beauty and cleanliness, which convinced him that this would become his permanent home. However, like countless other immigrants of his generation, his early years were marked by significant struggles and hardships. His initial settlement took him to Ontario, where he worked in a foundry under challenging conditions. The experience of manual labor in unfamiliar surroundings taught him valuable lessons about perseverance and the dignity of work.
After securing his immigration papers, Bains relocated to British Columbia and found employment in a sawmill, where he would encounter the harsh realities of systemic racism. He describes facing daily confrontations, verbal abuse, and discriminatory treatment during his commute between Surrey and Vancouver. These experiences shaped his understanding of social justice and would later fuel his passion for advocacy and political engagement.
Career Journey
Bains’ professional evolution reflects his commitment to both personal growth and community service. His educational achievements include a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Business (with Honours) from the British Columbia Institute of Technology, demonstrating his dedication to academic excellence despite the challenges of adapting to a new country.
His career in law provided him with invaluable experience working alongside business owners and residents throughout Surrey, developing a nuanced understanding of the daily challenges faced by community members. This professional foundation would prove essential in his later political endeavors, as it gave him practical insights into the intersection of law, business, and community needs.
The pivotal moment in Bains’ activist journey occurred during his time at a South Vancouver sawmill employing approximately 600 workers. Confronted with blatant racism—including graffiti in the lunchroom that read “Hindu curry stinks – white men lunch room. Hindu’s stay out”—Bains chose to take action rather than remain silent. Working with union representatives and management to address this discrimination gave him the confidence to pursue more significant involvement in labor advocacy.
This experience led to his election as an officer of Steelworkers-IWA Canada Local 2171, where he served for over fifteen years. As full-time vice president of the 7,500-member union, Bains led crucial negotiations and bargaining sessions focused on improving wages, working conditions, and workplace safety. His success in union leadership naturally progressed to his political aspirations.
In 2005, Bains successfully ran for the Surrey-Newton constituency, beginning his nearly two-decade tenure as an MLA. He was re-elected in 2009, 2013, and 2017, demonstrating consistent community support. His parliamentary roles included serving as opposition critic for various portfolios, including the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Transportation and Infrastructure, Forestry, Jobs, Employment, Labour, and WorkSafe BC.
Key Achievements & Public Perception
Bains’ appointment as Minister of Labour in 2017 under Premier John Horgan represented the culmination of his advocacy work and positioned him to implement meaningful policy changes. During his tenure, he focused on strengthening worker protections, improving workplace safety standards, and advancing labor rights across British Columbia.
His community service extends beyond politics, including his significant contribution to education through his role on the Kwantlen University College Board of Governors from 1993 to 1999, where he served as vice-chair for three years. His volunteer work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity demonstrates his commitment to practical community improvement.
As Surrey City Councillor, Bains has established clear priorities that reflect his comprehensive understanding of municipal governance. His focus areas include increasing transparency and efficiency at City Hall, developing Surrey’s downtown core with emphasis on entertainment facilities, maintaining public safety, and developing comprehensive transit planning.
Bains currently chairs the Investment, Innovation and Business Committee and the Focus Newton Task Force, while serving as Vice Chair of the Agriculture and Food Policy Committee. His broader regional involvement includes his role as Director on the Metro Vancouver Board and Vice Chair of the Invest Vancouver Management Board.
Current Role & Future Outlook
In his current position as Surrey City Councillor, Bains brings three decades of local residency and extensive political experience to municipal governance. His legal background provides valuable expertise in navigating complex policy issues, while his union experience ensures worker perspectives remain central to decision-making processes.
His committee leadership roles position him to influence key areas of Surrey’s development, from business innovation to agricultural policy. As Chair of the Focus Newton Task Force, he continues his longstanding commitment to his former constituency, ensuring that Newton’s specific needs receive adequate attention in city planning.
Bains’ future outlook emphasizes sustainable growth, inclusive development, and maintaining Surrey’s character while accommodating expansion. His experience at multiple levels of government—from union leadership to provincial ministry to municipal council—provides him with unique insights into effective governance and policy implementation.
Conclusion
Harry Bains’ journey from Hardaspur village to Surrey City Council represents more than personal success; it embodies the broader story of immigrant integration, community building, and democratic participation in Canada. His experiences with discrimination fueled his commitment to social justice, while his professional achievements in law and politics demonstrate the possibilities available through perseverance and community engagement.
Today, Bains continues to serve Surrey residents with the same dedication that characterized his union work and provincial ministry. His story reminds us that effective leadership often emerges from those who have personally experienced the challenges they seek to address. As Surrey continues to evolve, Harry Bains remains a crucial voice for inclusive growth, worker rights, and community-centered development, ensuring that the city’s future reflects the diverse perspectives and experiences of all its residents.
