London: The Indian Workers' Association Southall has celebrated its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of campaigning for the rights of labour, social justice, equality and the welfare of local communities.
The anniversary celebration on Thursday brought together members, supporters, members of the House of Lords, Members of Parliament, Councillors, Mayors from across the political spectrum, community representatives and friends of the organisation to recognise its remarkable contribution to civic life in Southall and beyond.
Founded in 1956, the Indian Workers' Association (IWA) Southall has been at the heart of some of the most important social and political struggles affecting Britain's Indian and migrant communities.
Over seven decades, it has campaigned against workplace exploitation, racism and discrimination, while providing support and a voice for communities facing injustice.
Speaking at the anniversary celebration, IWA President Virendra Sharma said: "This anniversary is a recognition of the huge contribution that IWA Southall made to civic life, securing rights and justice whilst building bridges between the UK and India."
Community organisations such as the IWA provided an important source of advice, solidarity and collective action to many migrants who arrived in Britain in the post-war period.
"Our history demonstrates our strong roots within the communities, our ability to have difficult conversations about systemic injustices and a refusal to accept injustice as our destiny," IWA's General Secretary Krishna Sarda said.
Southall itself has changed enormously since 1956. What was once a destination for newly arrived migrant workers has developed into a diverse and vibrant community whose influence extends far beyond the borough.
Businesses, cultural institutions, places of worship, community organisations and successive generations of residents have all contributed to shaping modern Southall.
The IWA has been an important part of that transformation.
