24/05/2026
Hey, it’s Ash!
As you may know, I’m currently on secondment to GMB National Office, partaking in GMB’s Race Achievement Scholarship Programme (GRASP)
I am still reflecting on what has been such a meaningful, emotional, and honestly fabulous few days spent over in Northern Ireland with my GMB colleagues.
It was a real privilege to be part of important conversations around sectarianism, the deep scars it has left on communities, and the ways those divisions connect with conversations about race, identity, class, and solidarity today. Hearing people speak so openly and honestly about lived experiences was both humbling and inspiring. It reminded me that whether it’s racism, sectarianism, homophobia, or attacks on workers’ rights — division has always been used to keep working people apart, and solidarity will always be our greatest strength.
One thing that will stay with me is seeing the physical reminders of division that still exist across Northern Ireland to this day. Walking through areas where peace walls still separate communities was incredibly powerful and emotional. Seeing those barriers in person — symbols of conflict, fear, and generations of separation — really puts into perspective how deeply division can shape people’s lives and identities. But it also highlighted the importance of the ongoing work being done by trade unionists, activists, and local communities to build understanding, unity, and peace across those divides.
We had the chance to meet some truly incredible comrades along the way — passionate trade unionists, community organisers, activists, and all-round icons. The kind of people who can give you a political education, make you laugh until your stomach hurts, and still somehow look effortlessly put together doing it.
Our time in Belfast was unforgettable. From visiting the James Connolly Centre to walking through Belfast City Hall and learning more about the city’s history, resistance, and resilience, every moment carried real meaning. Belfast is a city with so much pain in its history, but also so much pride, warmth, humour, and hope.
And naturally, in true union fashion, we fully embraced the “work hard, play hard” mentality. There were serious discussions in the day, solidarity and learning throughout — and then good music, good company, a few drinks, and enough laughs in the evening to heal the soul a little.
Feeling grateful for the experience, for the friendships made, and for the reminder that international solidarity, working-class unity, and community will always matter.
If you’d like to find out more about my Secondment, please don’t hesitate to drop us a message! 🤍🥺✈️🇮🇪
