The news that the Italian navy rescued almost 600 refugees when a trawler capsized in the Mediterranean off the coast of Libya highlights the plight of people fleeing war, poverty and persecution.
And that is why UNISON is sponsoring the People’s Assembly Convoy to Calais on Saturday 18 June as a show of solidarity with the refugees.
The union is also calling on members to help, with general secretary Dave Prentis says that it is our “humanitarian and moral duty to act” in the face of the escalating crisis, especially when governments refuse to abide by their international obligations.
UNISON members can show support for the refugees by:
- joining the convoy and going to Calais on 18 June, either as a group or an individual;
- taking part in a supporting rally in London if you cannot go to Calais – speakers include UNISON assistant general secretary Roger McKenzie;
- organising a collection of useful items in your union branch or workplace for refugees in the Calais camp;
- donating to the People’s Assembly online;
- organising a simple solidarity action on 18 June, the day of the Calais convoy, and 20 June (World Refugee Day) and share it on social media.
You can find out how to register for the convoy, get a seat on a coach, organise a collection or donate via the UNISON event listing on this site.
If you are using social media , please use the hashtags #J18C2C #RefugeesWelcome #WorldRefugeeDay and include @unisontweets, @unison_global and @pplsassembly in any tweets.
And if you are taking part in the convoy or one of the rallies, please wear your UNISON shirt or wave a UNISON flag so that other union members can join you.