The Federation of Trade Unions and the Seamen's Union held today (25th) the 100th anniversary of the victory of the seafarers' strike in Hong Kong. Wu Qiubei, President of the Federation of Trade Unions and member of the Legislative Council, said in his speech that the historical significance of the general strike is of great significance and encourages the younger generation of the labor movement to be brave. Moving forward, it reflects the patriotic feelings and spirit of solidarity of Chinese seamen, and in the new era of "patriots ruling Hong Kong", they will meet new missions and challenges.
Wu Qiubei said: "The Hong Kong seamen's strike has continuously inspired the development of our labor movement and is a source of motivation. The patriotic labor movement in Hong Kong started before the founding of the People's Republic of China, and struggled hard in the Hong Kong-British era. After Hong Kong returned to the motherland," The practice of "One Country, Two Systems" has now ushered in the mission and challenge of the new era under the principle of patriots ruling Hong Kong." In addition, the trade union must be "people-centered" to serve the masses of workers; Work, let the society understand the trade union and agree with the concept of the trade union, establish a broad social foundation, enhance the social influence of the trade union, make its business flourish, and jointly build a just society.
Mak Mei-juan, Secretary for Home Affairs and Youth Affairs, who attended the event, expressed the hope that young people can learn more about the history of the seafarers' strike, and continue to uphold the spirit of patriotism and love for Hong Kong, work hard and work together to build a better Hong Kong.
The seafarers' strike in Hong Kong began in January 1922. At that time, the seamen were dissatisfied with the long working hours, but the wages were meager, and they were not paid equal wages to the white seamen. People left Hong Kong on strike, eventually forcing employers to raise wages.
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