The North West Young Members Forum will be sending two delegates on next year’s Young Trade Unionists’ May Day Brigade to Cuba. The Brigade, organised by the Cuba Solidarity Campaign, is a fantastic opportunity to experience first-hand the reality of life under the ongoing US blockade of Cuba, witness the achievements of the Cuban Revolution, undertake voluntary agricultural work and take part in the May Day celebrations in Havana with activists and trade unionists from around the world.
Anyone who is interested in attending as a regional delegate should complete and return the application form to Dan Smith at d.smith3@unison.co.uk by 2nd January 2017. All members who will be under 27 at the end of the Brigade are eligible to apply.
Young Trade Unionists’ May Day Brigade: Thursday 27 April – Tuesday 9 May 2017
The brigade experience is an amazing opportunity for your young members to join Cuba’s May Day celebrations and take part in international solidarity events. It is primarily aimed at trade unionists aged 18 – 35 years old, although it is open to anyone who wishes to attend.
The brigade provides a unique opportunity for activists to participate in practical solidarity work and discover the reality of life for Cubans living under the illegal US blockade of their country.
During the 12-night brigade, from 27 April – 9 May 2017, participants will:
- Attend the spectacular May Day Rally in Havana’s Plaza de la Revolución as special international guests
- Meet the CTC (Cuban TUC), Federation of Cuban Women (FMC) and solidarity activists from around the world
- Gain valuable insight into the achievements of the Cuban Revolution and contemporary Cuban society
- Examine the challenges facing the island and witness firsthand the problems caused by the US blockade
- Meet and discuss current issues with Cuban workers with visits to hospitals, schools, workplaces and neighbourhoods
- Contribute to the agricultural and productive development of the country through voluntary work sessions
- Visit the Che Guevara Memorial in Santa Clara, plus other political and cultural sites
The cost of £1,599* includes flights, accommodation (dormitory style on the brigade camp), three meals a day, internal transport, visas, entrance costs at museums/historical sites and a full programme of activities. This is usually full, or part funded by the union, or by the individual.
Over the previous nine years more than 260 young trade unionists from Unite, UNISON, GMB, CWU, RMT, UCATT, TSSA, BFAWU, PCS, MU, USDAW and the UCU have participated in the Brigade. Many have returned home inspired by their experiences and gone on to become increasingly active within their trade union and the Cuba Solidarity Campaign. A report from the 2016 brigade can be read online here.
