- Conference
- 2020 National Black Members' Conference
- Date
- 18 September 2019
- Decision
- Carried
Conference notes that in June 2017, Theresa May, finally set out the UK Government�s position on the future rights of EU citizens, which on paper offers those who arrive lawfully before Brexit the chance to build up the same rights to work, healthcare and benefits as UK citizens. However, this offer lacks detail, is likely to be hugely burdensome to implement, does little to alleviate EU citizens� concerns over job security and, may even be unachievable within the timescales indicated.
Conference remains committed to the rights of foreign nationals to remain in this country and full compliance with its international obligations to shelter refugees fleeing war and persecution.
Conference believes that:
1)The freedom of movement principle is core to the EU�s four freedoms; Contrary to rhetoric, migrants are not a drain on society and would contribute hugely ensuring they are given the same rights and opportunities as other citizens;
2)All EU and non-EU migrants working in United Kingdom should be valued not victimised. They undoubtedly bring important social, cultural and economic contributions to our society and are sought for their skills in a range of essential industries and services.
Conference notes with deep concern the rise of the far right in the west. Resurgence in organised and violent racist, Islam phobic, anti-Semitic, misogynist and homophobic politics has profound consequences for all workers. Over the past year, the far right have felt emboldened to organise and connect with each other with negative consequences for all vulnerable communities and democratic standards everywhere.
Conference believes that tackling racism and xenophobia must continue to be an urgent priority for our union. Recent polling by the TUC found that over 37% of Black workers polled reported that they have been racially bullied, abused or discriminated against. This included verbal abuse; racist comments and jokes; bullying and harassment; physical violence; being singled out and treated differently or discriminated against.
Respondents said that they felt isolated and reluctant to complain – over 43% did not feel able to report their experience of discrimination to their employers and 38% did not report incidents of bullying and harassment.
Although Police Scotland reports no increase in hate crimes since the EU referendum, they also acknowledge that often such incidents go unreported and racism is increasingly a common experience for many Black communities.
Conference calls on the National Black Members Committee and the National Executive Committee to:
a)Highlight the importance of migrant workers in our society and workplaces;
b)Campaign against the UK withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights;
c)Campaign that the Government fund free legal advice and support for EU citizens in United Kingdom;
d)Continue vigorously to work on activities promoting human rights.