Amber Longo from Teamsters Local 1932 talked about how united the Cuban people are as they resist the threat of an American invasion and deal with embargoes. The Building Relations with Cuban Labor (BRCL) organization held a meeting in Chicago on June 13 during the Labor Notes Convention. Longo was one of over 800 people from around the world, representing more than 150 solidarity groups, trade unions, and political parties, who were invited by the Cuban people to join May Day events. These delegates took part in rallies across Cuba, which drew over 5.2 million people.
Longo said the big turnout at the rallies was expected. She highlighted the strong sense of working-class identity among Cubans that contributed to the turnout. “As an Amazon worker, I saw that it was like they were negotiating with their oppressor, as if we as unionists negotiate with our employer.” Longo also spoke about the “My Signature for the Homeland” petition, launched nationwide to defend Cuba. The petition denounces the U.S. blockade, energy restrictions, and threats of war, and it reaffirms the Cuban people’s right and duty to protect their national sovereignty. Over 6.2 million Cubans over the age of 16 signed the petition, which is more than 80% of the population in that age group. The petition was given to Raúl Castro to show solidarity.
Cuban law allows workers to form and join trade unions, and at least 90% of Cuban workers belong to a union. In contrast, only about 10% of American workers are union members.Longo said this strong labor-orientated organization helps Cubans link their workplace struggles to their broader fight against U.S. oppression.
Longo, as a trade unionist, saw firsthand how strong the Cuban labor movement is in facing the U.S. economic blockade. The Cuban people do not want war, but they are prepared to defend their country.
One can add their signature in support for Cuba at: https://www.firmoporcuba.com. By Jerry Ginsburg
Be First to Comment