The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) proudly commemorates the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Recognition and the Avoidance and Settlement of Disputes Agreement between our Union and the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo), then operating under the name of the Sugar Producers Association (SPA), which was formalised on February 27, 1976.
This landmark Agreement followed the historic and decisive poll held on December 31, 1975, between GAWU and the Man Power Citizens Association (MPCA), in which the field and factory sugar workers of Guyana delivered an overwhelming and unequivocal mandate in favour of GAWU. That resounding victory represented the culmination of nearly three decades of struggle by thousands of workers who fought courageously to secure the right to be represented by a Union of their choosing.
The formal signing of the Agreement was a monumental breakthrough. It represented not merely a procedural change, but a profound victory for democracy, dignity, and justice in the sugar industry. For the first time, the collective voice of the workers, expressed through GAWU, was formally recognised and respected.
As we observe this Golden Jubilee, we recall with solemn reverence and pride the many sacrifices that paved the way for this achievement. We honour the memory of the Enmore Martyrs, whose ultimate sacrifice in 1948 exposed the brutal realities faced by sugar workers and ignited a renewed determination for justice. We also remember Kowsilla, whose martyrdom further underscored the harsh conditions and oppression workers endured. Their sacrifices, and those of countless unnamed heroes, remain permanently etched in our national and labour history.
We pay heartfelt tribute to the outstanding leaders, organisers, and rank-and-file activists of GAWU who, despite intense hostility and adversity from the sugar barons, their handmaidens, and at times the State itself, remained steadfast and resolute. Their courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment ensured that the rights of sugar workers were not denied but were secured and honoured.
In this regard, we recognise in particular the indomitable contribution of Dr Cheddi Jagan, whose principled leadership and unshakeable support for the sugar workers and GAWU were indispensable in advancing the cause of workplace democracy and social justice. Alongside him stood many other distinguished leaders and supporters who lent their voices, strength, and sacrifice to this noble struggle.
Over the past 50 years, under GAWU’s stewardship, the lives of sugar workers have been transformed in meaningful and measurable ways. Workers’ wages and earnings have improved significantly, working conditions have been enhanced, and the dignity and importance of their contribution to the national economy have been firmly established.
Among the many gains secured are improved wage structures, enhanced leave entitlements, safety protections, fairer grievance procedures, better working hours arrangements, and stronger safeguards against arbitrary treatment. These advances have provided workers and their families with greater security, stability, and respect.
These achievements, however, were not handed to workers. They were won through persistent struggle, steadfast solidarity, and the unity of the sugar workers standing firmly behind their Union. Each gain represents the collective strength and determination of workers who understood that unity was their greatest weapon.
Today, as GAWU and the sugar workers celebrate this historic milestone, we do so with pride in the struggles fought and victories won. At the same time, we remain mindful of the responsibilities that lie ahead and aware of the challenges that continue to confront the industry and its workers.
We face the future with confidence. GAWU remains committed, as it has always been, to defending, protecting, and advancing the interests of sugar workers. Our Union continues to grow from strength to strength, guided by the principles of justice, democracy, and solidarity that have defined our proud history.
As we mark this 50th anniversary, we reaffirm our solemn pledge to the sugar workers of Guyana: GAWU will remain vigilant, steadfast, and uncompromising in its mission to uphold the rights, dignity, and welfare of workers.
