Over 100 activists, staff and community activists
from across Scotland took part in UNISON Scotland’s ‘Mobilise’
campaigning festival at the STUC in Glasgow in November 2010.
Focussing on organisation, the weekend pulled
together a range of campaigning and bargaining tools, including
media skills, ‘know your rights’, strategic campaigning, public
speaking, involving members, equality issues, new media, economic
briefings and myth-busting – along with more esoteric sessions
on comedy skills and political song.
An exhibition on trade union history provided
the backdrop to the weekend. Evening entertainment included
Carol Laula (who did a music workshop), talented UNISON activists
and one of the masters of political song, Arthur Johnstone.
Famous comedienne Susan Morrison led a fantastic
‘phone-in’ sesion. “Activists put amazing energy and commitment
into the event and there was a real buzz about it”, said Peter
Hunter, one of the organisers.
Participant Ann Gray wrote on facebook, “It was
an inspirational weekend”.
Opening the event, UNISON Scottish Convener Mike
Kirby stressed the need to engage with members and get the arguments
across that there is an alternative to the cuts.
And closing the event, Communications Chair John
Stevenson said people were relying on the unions to stand up
for public services and the welfare state we had built, and
we had a duty to do that.
“We need to take out the knowledge and skills
we have learned here to pass them on to new activists”, with
one simple message... We are proud of our public services and
we will defend them”.
He thanked Nancy Kelly, the staff team and all
the tutors for the work they had put in. Check out the Mobilise
facebook for more comments, a video and photos.
From devolution to the poll tax, UNISON
members have generations of experience to draw on as
we build the campaign to defend vital public services
- the fight of our lives.
MOBILISE 2010 is a campaign skills
festival. A celebration of years of trade union activity
and a platform on which to build and organise for the
challenge ahead.
With access to up to five modules or workshops
over the weekend and some longer course, the event will
equip you for the coming campaign.
