By Mark DaCosta- At the centre of our nation’s evolving narrative, the continuing significance of a robust labour movement stands out as an undeniable truth. First delivered as an address on May Day, May 1, and later carried in his Eye on Guyana column on May 3, Lincoln Lewis, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), articulates that the very foundation of our country’s political and social landscape has been shaped profoundly by the achievements of the labour movement, well before the emergence of political factions. His assertion that our modern society owes much of its framework and rights to the struggles instigated by labour underscores the need for constant vigilance and commitment to these foundational principles.
In his insightful analysis, Lewis underscores that while Labour Day often prompts unfounded scepticism about the relevance of the trade union movement, the real question we should be asking is how we can preserve and enhance the rights and gains won by our predecessors. He highlights the importance of core values such as justice, dignity, and the right to participate in the socio-political continuum of our nation. He states, “If the answer is yes, then labour is relevant.” This sentiment forms the crux of an argument that posits labour as not only relevant but essential to our continued progress and equity.
Lewis provides a historical context which reveals that the roots of organised labour in our country stretch back to figures such as Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, who began advocating for workers’ rights as early as 1905. Critchlow’s establishment of the British Guiana Labour Union laid the groundwork for collective action that sought not only better working conditions but also political recognition and rights that we often take for granted today. He astutely points out that “before there was political power, there was worker power.” This assertion serves as a powerful reminder that the political structures we see today were built upon the hard-won victories of the labour movement, rather than the other way around.
As our nation reflects on its rich history, which includes remarkable milestones like celebrating 121 years of workers’ organisation and the centenary of the struggle for universal suffrage, Lewis calls for an awakening to the reality of our socio-economic environment. He draws attention to rampant inequality and the marginalisation of workers in a country praised for its burgeoning wealth. He critiques the government’s approach to engagement with labour, asserting that, “engagement must be more than symbolism or fellowship,” emphasising the need for genuine dialogue that addresses the pressing concerns of workers today.
The current climate of growth, particularly with the influx of revenue from resources such as oil and gas, presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Lewis laments that despite this unprecedented wealth, many citizens find themselves “trapped under low wages and high living costs.” He stresses the importance of ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible benefits for the populace, advocating for a shift towards policies that genuinely improve the living standards of all members of society. Workers should not be relegated to the sidelines, receiving mere crumbs from the prosperity generated by our natural resources.
The trade union movement’s struggle for justice and equality resonates through the years. Lewis reminds us that the victories achieved — freedom of association, fair wages, and workplace safety — are ideas imbued with labour’s hard work and sacrifice. He states, “Every right workers exercise today carries labour’s fingerprints,” bringing a necessary focus to the vital contributions made by unions throughout our nation’s history.
Lewis is unambiguous about his concerns regarding the current political landscape, voicing apprehension over the role of governance in perpetuating division rather than unity. He calls for an end to “governance without consultation,” and stresses the necessity of including labour in national decision-making processes. His critique implies that the ruling party, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), has overlooked its obligations to the very citizens who propelled it to power, igniting a call to action for stakeholders across the political spectrum to adhere to the constitutional promise of inclusive governance.
In addressing the younger generation, Lewis extends a rallying call: “Know your history. Know your rights. Know your Constitution.” This message is imperative for youth as they inherit a legacy that demands both understanding and action. It is a reminder that the future of our democracy hinges on their readiness to engage, question, and uphold the rights that have been fought for over generations.
Ultimately, Lewis’ analysis serves as both a celebration of the labour movement’s history and an urgent call for its role in our future. He concludes with a challenge: the question is no longer whether labour is relevant; it seeks instead to provoke a commitment to defending and strengthening the foundation that has been painstakingly laid. In an era of significant wealth, our nation faces not just the promise of prosperity but the ethical imperative to ensure that all citizens partake in the nation’s bounty.
