Solidarity against the odds: trade union activism in a hostile environment

Abstract

A discussion on the challenges facing trade union activists in the light of the government's determination to create a hostile environment for trade unionists as well as people of colour - including the ways in which intersectionalities of race and class play out in the workplace and the labour movement. Topics discussed include: how and why people get involved in unions - and how to maintain their interest in the face of sometimes outdated practices; organising with the United Voices of the World (UVW) and larger trade unions; the relationship between students and university staff/academics in the University and College Lecturers (UCU) strike; migrant justice; cross-sector organising; activism versus bureaucracy; the effects of restrictive legislation on trade union activities, especially for workplaces where the union is not recognised or has limited resources; organising with the most precarious workers; the current increase in activism. There is also discussion of anti-migrant rhetoric within the Labour Party and trade union movement, but also recognition of the many examples of solidarity, including trade union solidarity with the Muhammad Idrish campaign.