UNISONActive is an unofficial blog produced by UNISON activists for UNISON activists. Bringing news, briefings and events from a progressive left perspective.

Tuesday, 10 January 2012

Join Cuba’s amazing May Day celebrations

Witness the sights, sounds and smells of Cuba and experience first hand the principles of equality, community and international solidarity. The Cuba Solidarity Campaign is organising two specialised trade union visits to Cuba next Spring to enjoy the iconic and unforgettable May Day celebrations and learn more about the country, its unions and the effects of the US blockade.

 The May Day parade was amazing. It was moving to see so many people coming together to celebrate their country”: Lisa – May Day Brigade 2011
The Young Trade Unionists’ May Day Brigade and the May Day Study Tour will show solidarity with over one million Cuban workers as they parade through Havana’s Plaza de la Revolución. The tour, from 26 April – 10 May 2012, is £999 and the cost includes flights, accommodation, food, transport and visas. Delegates will stay on the Julio Mella camp outside Havana and will take part in solidarity work. Three nights will be spent at the Hotel Vedado in Old Havana. Although aimed at young trade unionists, all are welcome!

The May Day Study Tour, 22 April – 3 May 2012, starts at £1,415 including flights, accommodation, transport and visas. Accommodation in Havana will be in the iconic Hotel Plaza.

Contact Dan Smith at:
Cuba Solidarity Campaign, c/o Unite Woodberry, 218 Green Lanes, London N4 2HB
t: 0208 800 0155
e: campaigns@cuba-solidarity.org.uk

Cuba really opened my eyes about what can be achieved in a society built around working together for the benefit of everyone” James – May Day Brigade 2008
Participants will visit Havana’s famous Museum of the Revolution and receive an exclusive invitation to the International Solidarity Conference alongside activists from across the globe and families of the Miami 5. Professional visits to schools, factories, hospitals and universities will provide insight into the achievements of the revolution and allow delegates to strengthen links with sister unions.

Our fifth annual May Day Brigade will also contribute to the agricultural development of the country through voluntary work sessions as participants discover the reality of life for Cubans living under the illegal US blockade of their country. Over 100 young trade unionists – from Unison, Unite, GMB, CWU, RMT, TSSA, BFAWU, PCS and the UCU – have previously taken part in our May Day Brigade.
The May Day Brigade was one of the best experiences of my life. Viva Cuba!” Vikki – May Day Brigade 2011
Both tours are a wonderful opportunity to see the real Cuba away from the usual tourist trail. They provide an inspiring and humbling view of Cuba’s intrepid resistance against 50 years of blockade and allow you to experience Cuba’s rich and diverse cultural heritage whilst providing visible solidarity and support to the Cuban people.