The Labour Spokesman Editorial
This year’s Labour Day Weekend was something of an unusual one. Because of COVID-19, it was not possible to stage the traditional events in the customary manner. However, there were a number of improvised events which served to mark the occasion, to honour workers and our fallen heroes, to display our togetherness as the nation’s Labour Movement, and to send a strong clear message to those in government that they have been weighed in the balance and found wanting.
Comrades, supporters and friends of Labour responded in very positive ways to our appeal for using the Internet, radio and telephones to show our solidarity as a movement. Their zeal and enthusiasm were remarkable and sent a clear message: “You made a terrible mistake messing with Labour. We have had our fill of you. It is time to leave. Please go away.”
One aspect of the new format which was truly significant was the internationalisation of the event. People living overseas spoke in glowing terms of how meaningful and encouraging it was to be able to participate and contribute to the Labour weekend proceedings. Many had been unable to participate in the Labour Weekend and Labour Day celebrations for a very long time. As they explained, their active involvement made them feel as if they were back home, especially during this time of the coronavirus pandemic.
Labour Weekend and, in particular Labour Day 2020, were truly unique experiences. The staging of events telephonically and over the Internet proved to have been far more successful than was initially anticipated — showing just how inventive and innovative we are as a people and as a movement. Labour is stronger than ever!