On 17 May, around 300 activists marched from Clapham to Brixton in defence of the striking workers at Lambeth College.
The demo was called by UCU, after a judge took out an injunction on their members on April 30 preventing them from going on all out strike, following an attack on their terms and conditions. UCU members had voted 95% to strike. On May 7, Unison members also voted 83% to strike over the same issues.
The demo was lively, and trade union branches from educational institutions across London were represented well. A small contingent of students organised by the National Campaign Against Fees and Cuts, including students from Lambeth College, was also present.
Workers from the local Ritzy cinema, Brixton, who have their own ongoing struggle for the living wage showed their solidarity by marching and making speeches at the closing rally. Other speakers included John McDonnell and Beth Redmond, a Workers’ Liberty member.
The Lambeth College struggle is said to be one of national significance, but in order for it to win it needs the widest possible support from groups up and down the country.
