‘ Let ’s raise the bar, ’ Christina McAnea tells Black members

UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea delivered a passionate speech at the union’s annual national Black members’ conference in Edinburgh this afternoon. The conference, which runs until 22 January, is the first in-person Black members’ conference since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. “COVID-19 revealed the truth, didn’t it?” Ms McAnea said. “Of institutional racism, for all to see. Black workers are more likely to be on the frontline, more likely to be low-paid, over-exposed to risks, offered less protection and more likely to suffer.” Ms McAnea announced the union’s mission to “establish a legacy to generate change” with the Year of Black. Workers.  “Our aim is to win fair pay so that you and your families can live the decent lives you deserve, so that our public services can recruit and retain staff and provide the services we all rely on.” Paying tribute to the many UNISON members who have been taking strike action in recent weeks, she told delegates: “UNISON has had wall to wall coverage. Newspapers and social media plastered with purple and green images from picket lines across the country.” “I’ve probably met some of you on the picket line. Those I’ve spoken to have told me what a difficult decision it is to go on strike. I understand. We all understand. But I am incredibly proud of our members for staying strong.” Ms McAnea condemned the anti-strike bill, which the government is rushing through Parliament at b...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News 2023 National Black Members Conference Source Type: news