The Enmore Martyrs represent the fight for equal rights

Dear Editor, Whether the Enmore factory stands or not, whether sugar remains a productive part of the economy or not, whether it ceases to be produced or not, whether the family of the martyrs is still in Guyana or not, whether those of us who have championed this cause are around or not, Enmore Martyrs Day is indelibly etched in the social, cultural, economic and political fabric of this nation.

The historic event that led to that fateful incident (June 16, 1948) represents a symbol of workers’ determination to sacrifice and fight against systems and authorities that oppress them in their quest to be treated with dignity and respect. History has proven from slavery to now that labour (enslaved, indentured and voluntary) has gained nothing without sacrifice, sometimes paying the ultimate sacrifice. We must not only commemorate this, but commit to return to it.

The national recognition of the Enmore Martyrs fought for by the Guyana Trades Union Congress and approved by the Forbes Burnham government in 1976 is a symbol of government’s covenant to workers that they will be treated with dignity and respect and that there should never be a repeat of the 1948 incident. Regardless of which party/group is at the helm of government Enmore Martyrs Day will continue to be recognised.

The sugar industry has always been one of Guyana’s major employers. At the same time the impact of sugar on the wider economy/society cannot be ignored. Decisions have to be made, but the treatment of sugar workers remains a concern in the process.

The PPP/C will seek political mileage blaming the APNU+AFC government for the state of the industry when sugar could not have reached its nadir were it not for the PPP/C’s ineptitude. The APNU+AFC government would want sugar workers to believe they are working their hardest to save the industry, and that they have no choice but to accept being shut out of the consultative and decision-making processes about their lives and livelihoods.

For the trade union community this day must find us engaging in serious introspection as to the state of the working class. The premature deaths of Lallabaggie, Dookie, Rambarran, Harry and Pooran because they refused to relent or give in to the employer and colonial authority stomping on their inalienable rights must not only be observed but see reinforcement of the commitment to what is required of us.

The 1948 incident intensified the people’s struggle for self-determination, given it was felt that when we take charge of our destiny, respect and dignity for all would be assured. The attainment of selfgovernment must not now find us thinking we are subservient to any group or individual nor that our welfare can only be assured by turning a blind eye to wrongs.

This generation of trade unionists must ask what legacy we want to leave and how we want to be remembered. When those who violate the principles of trade unionism are met with support or silence from fellow trade unionistsm the enabling environment is being ensured to continue violations. Any trade unionist or friend of the trade union must know and be told friendship is contingent on respecting principles.

The principle and sacrifice for selfdetermination is intended to realise the success of indigenous government. When government succeeds the environment and workers/citizens succeed. But success is only attainable when there exists respect for and enforcement of time-honoured principles, laws, international conventions and charters. It must matter not which group or party is in the seat of government, but what they do and must do to ensure good governance.

The Enmore Martyrs represent the fight for equal rights and justice in the society. Where these are enshrined in laws, thanks to the struggles of the five and others that preceded us, we must stand fearlessly today and demand that they be respected. Specific reference is being made to Articles 38, 147 and 149C in the Guyana Constitution. These articles vest the right, freedom and power in workers to participate in the decision-making processes and management of their welfare, the state and the economy.

Yours faithfully, Lincoln Lewis