May Day rally and festival in heart of Kent coal field

On May the fourth the trades councils of Kent have called for a rally of trade union members in what is the heart of the former Kent Coal mines at Aylesham.

The event is aimed at families and will seek to build on the heritage of trade union struggles in Kent, including the miners, seafarers and rail workers and just days away from the general election will remind those who seek to represent our communities in Government that the trade union movement shall be holding them accountable.

The message of the Kent Workers May Day rally is simple and clear – the six million organised workers in this country have for too long suffered sustained attacks against their terms conditions and wages. Similar situations exist across Europe which is why the event organisers are pleased to welcome “cheminots” (rail workers) from Paris to join us at the event. Aylesham has its own railway station adjacent to the event and so is ideal for access from across the whole of the South East.

Along with RMT, this important initiative is supported by a large number of sponsors and trade unions. There will be trade union, community and political speakers along with food, drink and live music creating a proper traditional May Day Festival atmosphere in an area rich in the spirit and solidarity of the trade union movement.

RMT General Secretary Mick Cash said ;‎

“RMT is delighted to be supporting this excellent event which will not only celebrate the rich trade union history of the Kent area but will send out the message that we are organised, on the march and here to stay.

“There will be something for everyone at this family-friendly event and we are looking forward to raising our RMT banners and to welcoming our brothers and sisters from the French rail industry to heart of the Kent coal fields.”

ENDS