ILWU CANADA STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH FARMERS IN INDIA
Dear Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Re: ILWU CANADA STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH FARMERS IN INDIA
The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU) stands in solidarity with the farmers and millions of activists across India who are peacefully protesting against the draconian Legislation recently passed by the Indian Government which aims to deregulate Indian agriculture.
The Legislation empowers corporations to exploit agricultural workers by abolishing guaranteed crop prices, among other reforms, threatening the livelihoods of millions of farmers and their families. The new Legislation opens the door for large conglomerates to eventually push farmers off their lands.
In one of the largest mobilizations in history, farmers took to the streets of New Delhi, the capital of India, to exercise their democratic right to peacefully protest; however, they have been met with roadblocks, tear gas, water cannons, and police brutality. Despite this, they are continuing to protest peacefully. The ILWU Canada unequivocally condemns the actions of the Indian Government in response to the farmer’s peaceful protests.
As members of ILWU Canada, we understand firsthand the importance of freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest. We implore the Indian Government to stop using violence and instead engage in a meaningful dialogue with farmers.
Today, the workers of ILWU Canada, many of whom have strong connections to farmers on the front lines, express our solidarity with the farmers protesting in India.
In Solidarity,
Rob Ashton
President
