Why are we here?
Issues addressed by Derek Simpson
Trade Unions have a proud history of fighting racism in the workplace and society. My union Unite has been fortunate to work alongside organisations like Love Music Hate Racism, searchlight and Unite Against Fascism. Racism is a scourge of our society and unfortunately employers are sometimes guilty of encouraging divisions between workers of different races.
In some sectors employers are deliberately exploiting migrant labour. Ensuring that these workers are not taught English and are not allowed to stand side by side with the local workforce.
Employers by their actions are fuelling racism. What we are doing as a union is breaking down those barriers. We are calling on the government to introduce legislation that will outlaw discrimination against migrant agency workers.
Another reason my union is here at Glastonbury is that we want to reach out to the next generation or workers. Young people are more likely to be discriminated against, bullied and mistreated by their employer. They are less likely to receive sick pay and holiday pay. Young people are concentrated in low paid industries and are often not given proper training and opportunities. We want the full minimum wage to apply to every worker the day they start work at sixteen. Only by trade union organisation will we be able to stop this exploitation of young people. Trade unions support and represent workers when they are in trouble. We are your friend at work.
Throughout the last few days people have been telling us about their bad experiences in the workplace. What they have been telling us highlights the need for better trade union organisation among this minority.