Last Friday, I was lucky enough to join two other FBU officials from the East Anglia region as we travelled across the UK to support Jeremy Corbyn in the Labour leadership election.
In the run-up to the first of six debates, where Corbyn would face off against his opponent Owen Smith, the Labour leader’s campaign team had organised a series of events throughout Wales.
We received a very hearty welcome from supporters when we arrived at a rally in Cardiff. Kitted out in our full fire tunic, people from all walks of life were happy to see firefighters supporting this inspirational, working class political movement. The event was enthused with positive vibes, amid an atmosphere of hope and optimism for our future. What made the day extra special was that, after a hectic day which included an intense head to head debate, Corbyn made the effort to travel across the city to thank his supporters. He delivered an inspirational speech and took photos with people late into the evening. That’s the kind of leadership I want to see from the Labour party - leadership that cares.
That’s the kind of leadership I want to see from the Labour party - leadership that cares
The next day another rally was held in Merthyr Tydfil, a town steeped in the history of the working class movement, where my companions and I were honoured to unveil the new banner for Corbyn’s campaign.
"It was a real honour to be able to stand centre on stage at the rally, in front of the vast crowd, side-by-side with Jeremy", commented my colleague Riccardo La Torre, regional secretary of the FBU in East Anglia. "We are in the middle of a social and political movement the size of which has not been seen for generations. It is vital that as firefighters we play our role leading from the front. Firefighters even got a personal mention in Jeremy’s speech, thanking us and the FBU for our continued support".
Mav Langdon, brigade organiser of the FBU in Essex, says that although the trip was long, the experience was invaluable. “We met some new comrades and it was amazing to see the immense, unified support that is out there for Jeremy Corbyn from everyday working people. It was inspiring and important for people to see firefighters at the forefront supporting Jeremy Corbyn, John McDonnell and their vision for our country – a country that leaves no one behind. Jeremy has committed to 'rebuild the UK fire service'. This is the type of politics people have been crying out for. We now need to step up to the mark as firefighters, and back those who have supported us for the last three decades."
- Click here for more information about Jeremy Corbyn and what he has pledged to do if re-elected leader.
