Tuesday 25th May was the anniversary of the murder of George Floyd.
Trades Union Congress (TUC) and Stand up to Racism encouraged trade unionists and anti-racism organisations to mark the anniversary in their workplaces. The UNISON Centre in Euston Road was illuminated purple as a reminder to all those passing by.
UNISON also encouraged branches and regions to hold a minute silence. The Equality Unit observed the silence together at 12 noon.
“UNISON continues to play a leading role in highlighting discrimination faced by Black workers, and we continue to support action to hold employers and the government to account in addressing institutional and systemic racism”. Gloria Mills, Head of Equality.
The 6pm Twitterstorm #TakeTheKnee showcased the actions of supporters all across the UK. There was excellent media coverage on the Black Lives Matter movement and our campaigning work on tackling racism.
Margaret Greer, National Race Equality Officer said, “On this day I recall the words of Ida B. Wells-Barnett when she said “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them” This is what we continue to do in our work that is really part of who we are – raising our voices to seek justice and equality for all.”
Activity from our affiliates
Runnymede Trust held an interactive webinar – ‘One Year on’ which you can still view on YouTube.
Our friends at Show Racism the Red Card livestreamed an event via social media to commemorate George Floyd. Speakers including John Barnes, Michael Rosen and Shaka Hislop reflected on events over the past year and discussed what next for the Anti-Racism movement.
Stand up to Racism organised an online rally and socially distant protests in a Week of Action.