‘ Activists are the lifeblood of our union, ’ says Andrea Egan

Today, UNISON president Andrea Egan opened the union’s 2023 national delegate conference in Liverpool with a speech to members. Referencing her roots as a Bolton woman, she said “I’m very proud to offer you a warm welcome here to the North West, the biggest of our union’s regions. “Having been active in my branch for over 30 years, I’ve always been grateful to UNISON for the platform it has given me to fight for our members and within our community.” Ms Egan also expressed her pride at leading the union through a “critical” year for members, which has seen workers across the union take industrial action for decent wages. Justice and equality The president underlined the importance of challenging racism and discrimination in every form across the union, noting: “We’re defending our trans siblings, fighting for dignity for disabled people, and fighting for women’s rights in a world where misogyny and violence towards women remains alarmingly widespread”. Ms Egan also celebrated the fact that 2023 is the Year of Black Workers, and that the national Black members’ committee has developed a comprehensive work programme for branches, regions and service groups to engage with. “We’re a movement and we cannot stand by while any of our members continue to face the injustice of racism or any inequality at work or in our communities.” International solidarity Ms Egan expressed international solidarity with workers in Cuba and T...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News 2023 National Delegate Conference Andrea Egan Source Type: news