The Reading Trades Union Council

The RTUC is the focal point of the trade union movement in Reading – and so much more. As well as local trade unions, the RTUC meets and organises with groups and individuals from the Reading area who are committed to supporting and improving the social, political and working conditions in the local community and workplaces. We also celebrate important local events – contemporary and historical – related to the Reading area which promote trade unionism, workers’ rights and community causes.

Friday 22 March 2019

RTUC supports the Vigil for Christchurch

Labour's Matt Rodda MP addresses the assembly

Shocked by the murderous extremism of the white supremacist in Christchurch, New Zealand, who killed 50 and injured 50 more in an attack on two mosques on 15 March, Nada al-Sanjari, Vice-President of Reading Trades Union Council, organised a vigil on 22 March.

Nada al-Sanjari, RTUC Vice-President

Impassioned speeches were made by Nada herself as well as others, including Reading East's Labour MP, Matt Rodda. After he spoke, Matt listened on humbly, joining the audience, one among equals.

Matt Rodda MP listens, one among equals, to speakers

The mood of the gathering was a combination of compassion for the victims and those touched directly by the crimes, and a sense of solidarity and resistance. Extremists will not prevail - they shall not pass. No Passaran!

*** In solidarity with the New Zealand Labour Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern's sentiment, this blog post does not name the killer: "he will [...] be nameless" ***