The FBU, CWU and Dartmouth Films have come together to support a brand new, feature length documentary about the 1984/5 miners’ strike.
They are co-hosting a launch event for the films crowd funding campaign at Somerset House on 12 November, which is expected to be attended by well-known guests such as: campaigning solicitors Gareth Peirce and Matt Foot, Chair of the Durham miners gala David Hopper, and President of the CWU Jane Loftus.
Fire Brigades Union national officer Dave Green said: “The FBU were proud to support the miners during their long and bitter struggle in 1984/85. Whilst this might seem a long time ago and some would say should be consigned to history only to be re-visited as a matter of interest, the FBU are absolutely determined that the heroic struggle, the injustices inflicted on many communities across Britain and the political lessons to be learnt must never be forgotten.
“If we are to really bring about the fair and equal society the labour movement is fighting for, then we truly need to remember, commemorate and learn from the struggles of all those years ago. Educate, Agitate and Organise. Unity is Strength.”
Still the Enemy Within is a new feature length documentary that uncovers the hidden story of the Great Miners’ Strike of 1984 – 85 through the individuals who played a vital role in that year.
This feature by first time director Owen Gower will tell the story of the strike through the voices of ‘Arthurs Army’ – a group of miners who put themselves on the frontline of every major battle for a year to defend their jobs and their communities.
Thirty years on, the film catches up with Norman, Jim, Howard, Buck, Jip, Joe and Steve to find out what life was really like on the front line. Whether it’s the comic misadventures of having the surname ‘Strike,’ running battles with the police or the death of a best friend, their stories are at once funny, dramatic, sad and ultimately inspiring.
Thirty years ago, Thatcher went to war. These are the voices of the miners who fought back.
Many miners went on to join the Fire Brigade after the pits closed, making this a topic close to many members’ hearts.
The film also has the support of a number of other big unions, most notably the NUT at national level. The film makers are asking local branches, brigades and regions to follow suit and support the film by visiting www.sponsume.com/project/still-the-enemy-within from 12 November.
Or by donating immediately by visiting www.the-enemy-within.org.uk/donate
Get your trade union branch to support our film www.the-enemy-within.org.uk/support
For information on the event and crowd funding campaign contact Sinead Kirwan at [email protected] /07914412037
Alternatively you can contact Alex Morris at [email protected] / 07947158348
