Detik.com
- May 1, 2009
Muchus Budi
R., Solo – Labour Day, May 1, was commemorated in a number of cities and in
various ways. In the Central Java city of Solo, scores of workers from the
Solidarity Trade Union Federation (FSBSK) held a ‘squatting’ action to
symbolise the oppression of workers, including domestic workers.
The scores
of demonstrators proceeded at a squat from the Vastenberg Fort towards the
Gladag roundabout, a distance of around 200 metres. A number of male
demonstrators wore women’s clothing to highlight the role of domestic
labourers. Others also played the role of bosses who treat domestic workers in
an arbitrary and despotic manner.
Following
this they held speeches and sang songs of struggle at the Gladag roundabout.
Taking turns, speakers condemned contract labour systems and the inhuman
treatment against informal workers who are employed in sub-standard conditions.
In a leaflet
that was handed out, the group called for May 1 to be designated as a national
holiday. They also rejected contract labour systems and outsourcing, called for
the creation of job opportunities with a reasonable wage and an end to wage
discrimination. (mbr/djo)
[Translated
by James Balowski.]
