In the midst of the Great Depression, labor disputes intensified across North America, especially among dock workers who sought to improve their harsh working conditions. On June 18, 1935, striking longshoremen in Vancouver, British Columbia, faced off against police, resulting in a dramatic confrontation that underscored the growing tensions between law enforcement and labor activists. The longshoremen were demanding better wages and safe working environments, reflecting a wider push for labor rights that was gaining momentum during the 1930s.

As thousands of longshoremen gathered in protest at the waterfront, police moved in to disperse the crowd. The atmosphere quickly escalated from a peaceful demonstration to violent clashes, with police wielding batons and arresting key figures among the striking workers. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as injuries mounted, with a total of 60 injuries recorded along with the arrest of 24 individuals. This incident quickly became a focal point in discussions about labor rights, as it illustrated the severe measures authorities would take to maintain order against workers advocating for their rights.

The clash highlighted the broader struggle for labor rights across Canada and the United States, which would continue to unfold throughout the 1930s. In the aftermath, the event garnered significant media attention, increasing public awareness about the plight of workers and their demands. The clashes demonstrated the volatile nature of labor movements during this period and set a precedent for future labor relations in Canada, prompting discussions about the need for labor reforms and worker protections.