A storm is brewing after comments made by Bermuda Industry Union (BIU) President Chris Furbert on Friday night, at the 40 Annual Labour Day banquet held at the Hamilton Princess Harbor View Room.
President Chris made the following remarks as he was closing the banquet. “When I heard that there was another banquet here this evening, I told them I wasn’t coming to the banquet, Because I didn’t want to be a part of those people, I didn’t I’m being honest. But it’s a up and down stairs, as it is, it’s fine. I came on the top level, I’m going back on the top level. I can get the Lobby and that’s fine and I don’t need to see them.” But again, thank you for participating at this banquet this evening.
TNN News spoke with BPSU Labour Relations Organizer Linda Bogle-Mienzer who is also a member of the PRIDE organization.
“The comments President Chris Furbert shared reflect a moment of deep disappointment within the labor movement, particularly regarding the intersectionality of workers’ rights and the rights of marginalized communities. Linda Boyle-Mienzer, as a Labor Relations Organizer, expressed her shock and disappointment at the remarks made by the BIU President, which seemed to undermine the inclusivity and diversity that many within the labor movement strive for.
Mienzer emphasized the importance of unity within the labor movement, not only in advocating for workers’ rights but also in recognizing and supporting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their identity. She called for a public apology from President Chris was based on the belief that such divisive comments do not reflect the core values of the labor movement and that healing can only begin with accountability and a genuine effort to include everyone in the fight for equality.
She stressed that when labor leaders make exclusionary statements, it creates a precedent that can trickle down, affecting how workers are treated by employers and management. Thus, she hopes for introspection from President Chris and a public apology to restore solidarity and uphold the principles of fairness and equality within the labor community.
In this continuation, Linda-Boyle-Muenster highlights the need for solidarity across different movements, particularly emphasizing the importance of collaboration between LGBTQ+ rights advocates and labor organizations. She calls attention to the fact that organizations like OutBermuda have a responsibility to stand in solidarity not only for LGBTQ+ rights but also for workers’ rights and racial justice. She finds encouragement in the decision by OutBermuda to participate in the upcoming Labour Day march, recognizing the interconnectedness of these movements and the shared struggle for equality and fairness.
Mienzer clarifies that the march is not an extension of the Pride March but a demonstration in support of workers’ rights, welcoming the involvement of allies who understand this distinction. She also expresses hope that the BIU President, after reflecting on the impact of his previous comments, might issue a public apology before the event. She believes that such an apology could help mend relationships and foster unity within the labor movement.
Her message underlines that true leadership involves accountability and the willingness to make amends when necessary. She argues that an apology from President Chris could significantly change the dynamics, reinforcing the idea that every leader is capable of growth and that acknowledging mistakes can bring people back together.
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