On this occasion of Labour Day 2025, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends solidarity and warm greetings to all workers across Guyana. As we celebrate the struggles, achievements, and continued resilience of the working class, we do so in the shadow of national mourning and rising concern over recent events.
GAWU wishes to begin by expressing its deepest sympathies to the family, relatives, and friends of Adrianna Younge, whose tragic and untimely death has shaken the nation. Her passing has ignited grief and reflection throughout the society, and our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones during this most painful time.
We note the ongoing efforts by the authorities and independent experts to ensure transparency and uncover the whole truth surrounding Adrianna’s death. These efforts—especially the engagement of international expertise—are crucial steps toward accountability and justice. We await the final toxicology report with the hope that it will provide greater clarity and contribute to a fair and conclusive resolution of the matter.
While we support the call for justice, we must also take this moment to strongly condemn all acts of violence, aggression, looting, and public disorder that have taken place in recent days. Such actions not only undermine the cause of justice but also endanger innocent lives and livelihoods. We further denounce those individuals and groups who have deliberately misled and incited Guyanese to act irresponsibly, risking the safety and well-being of others. Our citizens must reject those who manipulate tragedy for division and gain.
In contrast, we celebrate the unwavering contributions of the Guyanese working class—those who continue to build, serve, and move our country forward. Whether in the fields and factories, in schools and hospitals, in offices and construction sites, the working men and women of Guyana remain the foundation of our nation’s progress. We applaud their tireless efforts and reaffirm our commitment to defending their rights and improving their lives.
We also recognise that Guyana’s economy is undergoing a significant transformation. The rapid growth, driven by the energy sector and expanded public and private investments, has resulted in several positive developments. We commend ongoing efforts to upgrade national infrastructure, expand educational and health facilities, improve access to housing, and roll out social support systems that benefit thousands of Guyanese.
Importantly, we acknowledge several pro-worker policies that have been introduced or expanded, including job creation programmes, skills training initiatives, and improved access to benefits and services. These measures are welcome, and we encourage continued collaboration with the labour movement to ensure their successful and equitable implementation.
However, even amid this progress, we must reiterate a fundamental truth: the Guyanese working class must be at the centre of our country’s development. The prosperity unfolding around us must not be for all. We therefore call on policymakers and employers to engage the trade union movement in taking meaningful action to ensure that workers share fully and fairly in the gains of national growth.
In this regard, GAWU calls for an immediate equalisation of the national and public sector minimum wage. For too long, workers at the lowest end of the wage scale have borne the brunt of rising living costs and stagnant pay. A higher minimum wage is not only a matter of fairness—it is a moral and economic necessity. It will help uplift families, stimulate the economy, and reduce inequalities that threaten social cohesion.
As we reflect on the condition of workers at home, we also look outward to the international stage. Around the world, the working class continues to assert its rights in the face of economic and social challenges. From wage struggles and labour reform in Latin America and Africa, to the resurgence of union power in North America and Europe, the global labour movement is regaining strength and momentum.
We draw inspiration from these international developments, reaffirming the power of solidarity and collective action. At the same time, we remain mindful of the threats that workers face globally: job insecurity, exploitation in digital economies, climate-related disruptions, and the erosion of labour protections. In this global context, GAWU recommits to standing with workers everywhere to pursue decent work, fair wages, safe conditions, and a future grounded in justice and dignity.
As we mark Labour Day 2025, let us remember the values that have long defined our movement—unity, courage, sacrifice, and perseverance. Let us stand resolutely against injustice and exploitation and work tirelessly for a Guyana where workers are not merely contributors to growth but active participants in shaping our shared prosperity.
We close this statement by extending our condolences to the family of Adrianna Younge. We pray for healing, peace, and justice in this difficult time—and for wisdom and compassion to prevail in our national response.
Happy Labour Day to all Guyanese workers. Let us move forward, together, with strength, purpose, and hope.
