“Still relevant today”

Construction workers were in central London on Friday (25 Sept) morning when they took to the streets to hand out leaflets and newspapers encouraging people to come to Cable Street for the 90th Anniversary rally and march on Sunday 4 October.

Members from Unite construction branches were up early to talk to commuters outside Kings Cross station and highlight how important it is to stand together and send a message of solidarity in these troubled times.

Unite regional officer Declan Murphy organised the morning leafleting and said, “The Battle of Cable Street is still relevant today. All the different parts of working-class East London, English, Irish, Jewish, all came together to chase the politics of hate and divison from our street.

“And here we are 90 years later, fighting the same battles again.”

John Cahill, Branch Secretary of the North London Construction Workers LE1387 has a personal story, saying “My wife can recall stories from her Irish grandad, who was there. He received a smack in the mouth for defending the line!”

The group of building workers talking to commuters and handing out papers to the public were joined by Unite national officer Jason Poulter along with Unite regional officer Nadine Edwards, who, according to Declan, “was distributing copies like an old newspaper seller for yesteryear”.

Declan added, “This is a cause every trade unionist should be behind and we hope to see you there on Sunday.”

Unite are supporting the major march and rally on the anniversary day. Those who wish to participate can meet Sunday 4 October outside Tower Hamlets Town Hall from midday, with the march beginning at 1pm.

You can also find out more at the TOGETHER on Cable Street website here.

Unite Live will be covering the anniversary events on October 4 – so keep checking back for the latest details. 

By Keith Hatch

Photos by Declan Murphy