Unite supports “joyous event” in Somerset

Unite Community activists in Somerset have been organising the tenth anniversary of the annual Bridgwater Together festival, an event which aims to challenge divisions and bring communities together. 

The free cultural festival celebrates the town’s diversity, and this year took place on . Saturday, November 16, with over 500 people packing into Bridgewaters recently renovated Town Hall and the town’s Engine Room.

The day was a melting pot of workshops, performances and food that included traditional dancing from the Bulgarian and East Timor community and a Bollywood workshop.

There was also music from across the world and a mass drumming session to keep the crowd moving.

Unite Community members from the Somerset & North Devon Unite Community Branch have been involved with organising the festival from the start and had a stall full of resources and publications such as The Landworkers. Members on the stall spoke to the public to highlight current branch activity including the campaign to save the Winter Fuel Allowance.

Andy Mitchell, Chair of Unite’s Somerset and North Devon Branch, explained the background to the annual festival. Andy said: “This was the 10th anniversary of Bridgwater Together. The event started in 2015 after Unite members at Hinkley Point raised concerns about rising hate crime and racism in the local area.

“We decided to stage an event that celebrated multiculturalism rather than focus on the negatives. With what has happened over the Summer it feels more important than ever to hold a day where people can come together and celebrate our diverse communities.”

Local dignitaries showed their support by attending the event and meeting organisers, performers and the public.

Clare Moody is Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner and said that “it’s fabulous that Unite has done so much to support this event over the last ten years.”

Cllr Jacqui Solomon, Mayor of Bridgwater, said: “You can clearly see that Bridgwater Together is a celebration of unity and togetherness here in the heart of Bridgwater. This event is all about bringing people together from all walks of life, fostering connections and creating friendships that will last, whether you’ve come to meet new friends, reconnect with old ones, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.”

“We’re thrilled to have the support of trade unions like Unite for such a joyous event.”

Cllr Jacqui Solomon, Mayor of Bridgwater, at the Unite Community stall with Andy

Andy felt that this year has been tough with the cost of staging the event rising quite sharply, but Unite has rallies to show its support for the community.

Andy said: “Unite has been brilliant, with sponsorship and practical support from the region, along with crucial donations from branches at Hinkley Point to cover the extra expense. Hinkley workers were some of at least 500 people who enjoyed the event with their families. Billy Bragg was right when he sang there is power in a union. I’m proud that Unite started this and continues to support such a good event.”

By Keith Hatch

Photos by Somerset and North Devon Unite Community Branch