Sisters for Hope

Unions vote to fight the BNP

At a packed conference yesterday the women’s Trade Union movement gave its resounding support to the Hope Not Hate campaign against the BNP.

Over 350 women, representing 32 different unions and numerous local trades councils, attended the TUC Women’s Conference in Scarborough. A motion from PCS and Unison on campaigning against the far right received overwhelming support, and had women queuing up to speak in favour.

They raised the astonishing misogyny of the BNP. London BNP candidate Nick Eriksen equated rape to force-feeding a woman to eat chocolate cake. How the BNP spread hate, divide communities and increase race hate crimes.

Their utter opposition to equality and rights for all makes the BNP incompatible with the trade union movement. Many unions have taken the steps to expel BNP members from their unions.

The new Hope Not Hate women’s leaflet was launched at conference, and the unions have pledged to circulate this through their networks and to support Union Friday.

Rotherham Hope Not Hate activist and Community union member Shabana Ahmed speaks in favour of the motion

Rotherham Hope Not Hate activist and Community union member Shabana Ahmed speaks in favour of the motion

The fact is this is not just a women’s issue or a trade union issue – it’s universal. The BNP’s hatred and contempt extends to so many groups in society – especially the most vulnerable – it’s probably most of the population. In this turnout campaign, more than ever before, we need to show the relevance of this issue to everyone. As one trade unionist put it yesterday, “Everyone opposed to the politics of hate must vote.”

Download the women’s leaflet here – and pass it on!