Building a modern labour movement

In 21st century Bermuda, the rights, freedoms and opportunities we all possess are all a direct result of the labour movement. Leaders such as Dr E.F. Gordon, Otiwell Simmons, Dr Barbara Ball and so many others, fought for lasting progressive change and for a Bermuda with opportunity for all. We owe them a tremendous debt.

Yet we must do more to honour these Bermudian giants than celebrate past victories. As they stood for moving our people forward, so must we continue to lead our country and our people to greater heights. We must build a 21st century Labour movement. 

This movement must be focused not only on transforming our island for the better but also on transforming our people for the better. We must demand the highest standards in work ethic, integrity and performance, not just from ourselves but from our brothers and sisters as well. We must let the true Bermudian nature shine past the lies and stereotypes that have painted our people in a negative light.

We must view our work as if it were our children and give it our highest effort and commitment. We should better ourselves, enhance our skills and strive to be the best at whatever it is we do. Not just the best in Somerset or the best in Bermuda, the best in the world. 

In this economic climate many traditional businesses are struggling to stay afloat and even keep their friends and family employed. So we must empower ourselves to create new opportunities, new ventures and new businesses for ourselves and not be content to rely on others for employment or an opportunity.

To be pro-labour we must be pro-business as both need each other to survive. We believe in creating an environment where businesses can thrive and where government is no longer an obstacle to entrepreneurship. We see a Bermuda with lower interest rates from the banks to get money moving through the economy again; the removal of stifling laws, regulations and fees. We see an economy “freed up” to allow any Bermudian with the will to start a business an easier path and a spirit that says Bermuda is truly open for business for ALL.

Some may feel that they are not labour, because they put on a tie when they go to work or because they don’t work with their hands. In reality, anyone who works for a living, believes in fairness and dreams of a better tomorrow IS labour.

Let us remember the victories behind us and the warriors who earned them. Let us commit to building a new Labour movement that will transform ourselves and our country. Let us mark this Labour Day as the day our people proclaimed with renewed vigour, “United we stand, divided we fall!”

Marc Bean is the Leader of the Opposition.