Celebrating the People Who Keep Us Moving

Every day, transit workers across the country move millions of Canadians and keep our communities connected. From early mornings to late nights, in every type of weather, these dedicated professionals operate, maintain, and support the transit systems we rely on.

Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day is March 18, and is our opportunity to recognize the vital role these workers play. It’s a chance to say thank you to the operators, mechanics, cleaners, planners, security teams, and countless others working behind the scenes to keep transit running safely and smoothly.

At CUTA, we celebrate Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day with a week-long campaign. Throughout the week of March 18th, we shine a light on the many roles that make public transit possible and encourage Canadians to share their appreciation using #ThanksTransit on social media.

This year’s event carries added significance. Through CUTA’s advocacy, proposed amendments to the Criminal Code under Bill C-14 would extend protections to all transit workers who experience workplace violence, recognizing such incidents as an aggravating factor at sentencing. The bill is currently before the Senate.

 

Each day of the campaign focuses on a different group of transit professionals, helping us showcase the teamwork behind every successful transit system:

Monday – Maintenance & Sanitation
Celebrating the crews who keep vehicles clean, safe, and running smoothly.

Tuesday – Operators
Honouring the people behind the wheel who get us where we need to go.

Wednesday – Full Appreciation Day!
A day to recognize everyone who helps make public transit possible.

Thursday – Administration / Support / Planning
Shining a light on the people behind the scenes who manage schedules, plan routes, and keep operations running.

Friday – Security
Thanking the teams who help ensure a safe and secure transit experience.

How You Can Participate

Transit workers are everyday heroes. They help students get to school, employees get to work, and families stay connected. They navigate busy streets, maintain complex vehicles, and support millions of trips each year. Appreciation goes a long way. Here is how you can join the celebration.

To help you take part, we have created a set of digital graphics you can use on your social media channels. You can choose between two options: ready-to-use graphics or customizable graphics. Both sets are available in English and French, so you can choose what best fits your audience.

Share your thanks: The best way is to thank the transit operators and workers you see or post a message of appreciation on social media using #ThanksTransit

Tell your story: Has a transit worker made a difference in your day? Share your experience online.

Get involved: Transit systems are celebrating across the country. Watch for local events and ways to participate.

Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day is more than a campaign. It is a nationwide show of gratitude. Let’s come together to celebrate the incredible people who make public transit possible.

Option 1: Ready-to-Use Graphics

2026 TOWAD - Graphic Square

Short on time? Use these simple, pre-made graphics to announce your participation:

  • Download your preferred graphic size directly from this page.
  • Upload it to your social media platform of choice.
  • Write a caption to let your network know you’ll be speaking.
  • Tag #ThanksTransit in your post.

Download Ready-to-Use or Customizable Graphics

English
Download Ready-to-Use
Download Customizable

French
Download Ready-to-Use
Download Customizable

Customizable Graphics

Want something more personalized? Our customizable templates let you add your own details.

  • Open the Adobe Express project link provided below.
  • In the bottom section hover your cursor over the page until three dots appear. Click that, then click Duplicate to create your own version.
  • Edit the background photo and insert your own organization’s photos.
  • When finished, download your customized graphic using the button at the top right.
  • Upload your new graphic to social media.
  • Write a caption highlighting your role at the conference.
  • Tag #ThanksTransit in your post.

Access Customizable Graphics – English
Access Customizable Graphics – French

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