While Goodwin lived in Cumberland his participation in labour activism began, he joined the Socialist Party of Canada and become an active member of the Cumberland Local 2299 union. During the 1912–1914 Coal Miner's Strike against Canadian Collieries, Goodwin became a key activist, speaking out against working conditions, advocating for mine safety and union recognition. While the strike did not garner favourable change for workers, it had major political and economic impacts on the country leading to recognition for the strikers grievances. Following the end of this strike in 1914, Goodwin emerged as a dedicated socialist and began his work as a union activist. As a result of his involvement in the strike, Goodwin found himself blacklisted from mining and was forced to move away from Cumberland to find work.