The Bermuda Trade Union Congress has issued a rallying call to all workers to recognise the important role played by labour leaders this May 1.

In a statement released this afternoon the BTUC urged members of the community to take part in a “Solidarity March” starting at 12pm from Victoria Park in Hamilton.

“How ironic that on May 1, 2017, labour leaders in Bermuda will stand in court to face prosecution for exercising their right of assembly,” the statement said.

“As a progressive society, we cannot stand by idle while the government seeks to silence community leaders.

“As a progressive society, we cannot stand by while community leaders are turned into political prisoners. These actions demand action.

“To that end, we are calling on all workers: Bermudian and Guest worker; organised and non-organised; public and private sector; blue and white collar; to join in solidarity to honour the important roles our labour leaders play in supporting our community, driving progress, and safeguarding the interest of working class persons.”

Every year May 1 is recognised around the world as “May Day” or “International Workers Day”.

The day is typically marked by international celebrations, focusing on the contribution of workers and workers’ organisations to the socio-economic success of their communities.

In addition to the march a ‘Solidarity Service’ will be held on April 30 at St Paul A.M.E. Centennial Hall in Hamilton starting at 10.55am.

The statement added: “Let us not be fooled into thinking that any good can come from division; into thinking that one type of worker is better than the other; or into thinking that another’s struggle is not valid if it does not mirror our own.

“Instead, let us move forward together with a true sense of respect for the rights and the contributions of the workers of Bermuda.”