On this day we must remember the Enmore Martyrs

Jun 16, 2017 Letters

Dear Editor,
Whether Enmore factory stands or not, sugar remains a productive part of the economy or not, ceases to be produced or not, the family of the martyrs alive in Guyana or not, those of us who have championed this cause are around or not, Enmore Martyrs Day is indelibly etched in the social, cultural, economic and political fabric of this nation.
The historic event that led to the fateful incident (June 16, 1948) represents a symbol of workers’ determination to sacrifice and fight against systems and authorities that oppress them in their quest to be treated with dignity and respect. History has proven from slavery to now that labour (enslaved, indentured and voluntary) has gained nothing without sacrifice, sometimes paying the ultimate sacrifice. To this we must not only commemorate but commit to return.
The national recognition of the Enmore Martyrs fought for by the Guyana Trades Union Congress and approved by the Forbes Burnham Government in 1976 is a symbol of government’s covenant to workers that they will be treated with dignity and respect and never shall there be a repeat of the 1948 incident. Regardless of which party/group is at the helm of government Enmore Martyrs Day will continue to be recognised.
The sugar industry has always been one of Guyana’s major employers. At the same time the impact of sugar on the wider economy/society cannot be ignored. Decisions have to be made but out of concern, there remains the treatment of sugar workers in the process of it.
The PPP/C will seek political mileage blaming the APNU+AFC Government for the state of the industry when sugar could not have reached its nadir were it not for the PPP/C’s ineptitude. The APNU+AFC Government would want sugar workers to believe they are working their hardest to save the industry and that they have no choice but to accept being shut out of the consultative and decision-making processes about their lives and livelihood.
For the trade union community this day must find us engaging in serious introspection as to state of the working class. The premature deaths of Lallabaggie, Dookie, Rambarran, Harry and Pooran because they refused to relent or give in to the employer and colonial authority stomping on their inalienable rights must not only be observed but see reinforcement of commitment of what’s required of us.
The 1948 incident intensified the people’s struggle for self-determination, given it was felt when we take charge of our destiny, respect and dignity for all would be assured. The attainment of self-government must not now find us thinking we are subservient to any group or individual nor can our welfare only be assured by turning a blind eye to wrongs.
This generation of trade unionists must ask what legacy we want to leave and how we want to be remembered. When those who violate the principles of trade unionism are met with support or silence from fellow trade unionists the enabling environment is being ensured to continue violations. Any trade unionist or friend of the trade unionist must know and be told friendship is contingent to respecting the principles.
The principle and sacrifice for self-determination is intended to realise the success of indigenous government. When government succeeds the environment and workers/citizens succeed. But success is only attainable when there exists respect for and enforcement of time-honoured principles, laws, international conventions and charters. It must matter not which group or party is in the seat of government, but what they do and must do to ensure good governance.
Enmore Martyrs represent the fight for equal rights and justice in the society. Where these are enshrined in laws, thanks to the struggles of the five and others that preceded us, we must stand fearlessly today and demand that they be respected. Specific reference is being made to Articles 38, 147 and 149C in the Guyana Constitution. These articles vest the right, freedom and power to and in workers to participate in the decision-making processes and management of their welfare, the state and economy.
Lincoln Lewis

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