Canadian Building Trades Monument

Unveiled in 2017, the Canadian Building Trades Monument, Standing Together, celebrates the achievements of Canada’s countless skilled building tradespeople. It is an inspiring place for workers and their families to gather, reflect and commemorate the losses they have endured.

Designed by sculptor John Greer and architect Brian MacKay-Lyons, and realized by Canada’s Building Trades Unions, the monument is located in Major’s Hill Park in Ottawa. The site is close to Parliament and the Rideau Canal, where tradespeople laboured under harsh conditions to build the infrastructure of this country.

The plaza invites visitors to enter and empathize with the sacrifices made by tradespeople. The craftsmanship suggests a commitment to excellence and the larger-than-life plumb bobs symbolize the strength of the building trades and the pride of those who practice them. The restrained palette of materials—Cambrian granite and stainless steel—creates a sense of unity and gravity.