"Dear comrades, unfortunately I cannot join you for the Festival, but it is a privilege to send a message of support for the extraordinary initiative that the workers of the former Gkn in Florence have undertaken".
Thus writes the English director Ken Loach to the factory workers' collective of the former Gkn-Qf of Campi Bisenzio (Florence), who in support of their mobilization have organized a working class literature festival from 5 to 7 April at the workers' gathering at the plant.
"This dispute - writes Ken Loach in a message posted on the Collective's social media - clearly shows that the working class has the talent, imagination and determination to be able to plan the production of the goods we need and will need for many years in the future. He understands the need to protect the environment, both in the manufacturing of these goods and in their use. Workers of all levels, from those who carry out manual labor to managers, would have secure employment, adequate remuneration and conditions that allow everyone to live lives of dignity and security.
This is something that large businesses and corporations never guarantee. Their success depends on making a profit from the work of others. This generates enormous inequalities, wealth for a few and starvation wages for many The struggle of the former GKN shows that these exploiters need us, but we don't need them."
"The former Gkn project - he adds - is cutting-edge from several points of view": "Putting together a cooperative of workers means having a serious organization supported by the community as a whole to make this incredible project a reality. We march behind the flags of solidarity and unity. You have the right to demand that this becomes a reality. You have the right to have the active and concrete support of progressive trade unions and political parties, both Italian and international. You are setting an example that all of us must follow. I hope that these bonds are created and that others recognize the seriousness and importance of what you are doing. With the warmest wishes that you hold firm to your principles and remain as strong as you are now. Solidarity".
Reproduction reserved © Copyright ANSA