Nearly six decades after its founding, the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is preparing to mark its 59th anniversary with a two-week series of community and celebratory events running from May 16 to 31. This year’s commemorations carry the thoughtful theme “59 Years of Stewardship: Embracing the Changes and Preparing for the Future World of Work”, reflecting the organisation’s longstanding commitment to supporting workers amid shifting industry and labor norms.
Founded in 1967, the ABWU has built a decades-long legacy as a unwavering champion for fair labor standards and social equity across the twin-island nation. Throughout its history, the union has continuously adjusted its policy positions and member programs to align with the evolving realities of the global and local labor market, ensuring it remains a relevant and powerful voice for all working people.
In comments on the 2026 anniversary theme, ABWU General Secretary David Massiah highlighted the unprecedented speed of transformation reshaping workplaces across the world today. From the rise of artificial intelligence and widespread automation to the boom in remote work and gig economy roles, plus the global shift toward a low-carbon green economy, Massiah noted that the very structure of work is being redefined faster than many workers and institutions can keep up.
Massiah emphasized that these seismic shifts are not temporary or reversible—but that proactive action can help workers adapt and thrive even amid uncertainty. “The priority right now has to be expanding access to training and upskilling that equips workers with the competencies they need to succeed in this new labor landscape,” Massiah explained. He added that the union also has a critical unmet goal: extending the same labor protections, benefits and security that traditional full-time workers have long enjoyed to the growing populations of remote and gig workers, who are currently largely unorganised across much of the region.
The full schedule of anniversary events is designed to bring together members, supporters and the general public to celebrate the union’s legacy while building community for future work. The festivities kick off with an Anniversary Church Service on Sunday, May 17 at 10 a.m. hosted by the Swetes Wesleyan Holiness Church. On Sunday, May 24, the ABWU will host its annual Anniversary Fun Ride starting at 9 a.m. from the union’s headquarters on Lower Newgate Street. A Members Appreciation Day will follow on Friday, May 29, opening at 10 a.m. at the ABWU headquarters to honor the union’s rank-and-file members. The two-week celebration will conclude on May 31 with the ABWU Invitational Race, held in conjunction with the OECS Championships, kicking off at 8 a.m. from the Lower Newgate Street headquarters.
The ABWU has issued a public invitation to all current members, long-time supporters, community partners, and residents of Antigua and Barbuda to take part in the anniversary activities, as the organisation marks 59 years of service, advocacy, and worker empowerment across the country.