Indian Workers’ Association in UK Marks 70 Years of Service
The organisation has spent seven decades advocating workers’ rights, equality, social justice and the welfare of migrant and local communities across Britain.
LONDON, Sep 12: The Indian Workers’ Association (IWA) Southall has marked its 70th anniversary, celebrating seven decades of work for labour rights, social justice, equality and community welfare.
The anniversary event held on Thursday brought together IWA members and supporters, members of the House of Lords, Members of Parliament, councillors, mayors, community representatives and friends of the organisation from across the political spectrum.
The gathering recognised the organisation’s longstanding contribution to civic life in Southall and its wider role in supporting migrant and working-class communities.
Founded in 1956, the IWA Southall has played a significant role in several major social and political campaigns involving Britain’s Indian and migrant populations.
Over the decades, the organisation has campaigned against workplace exploitation, racism and discrimination while offering advice, solidarity and support to people facing social and economic injustices.
IWA President Virendra Sharma said the anniversary represented recognition of the organisation’s contribution to civic life and its efforts to strengthen ties between Britain and India.
“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,” Sharma said.
Community organisations such as the IWA became particularly important to migrants who arrived in Britain during the post-war period, providing them with access to advice, collective support and a platform to raise concerns.
IWA General Secretary Krishna Sarda said the organisation’s history reflected its deep connection with local communities and its determination to confront systemic injustice.
“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,” Sarda said.
Southall has undergone major changes since the IWA was established in 1956. The area, once a destination for newly arrived migrant workers, has evolved into a diverse and vibrant community with a strong cultural and economic presence.
Businesses, cultural institutions, places of worship, community groups and successive generations of residents have all played a role in shaping modern Southall.
The IWA has remained an important part of that transformation, continuing its engagement with communities and its advocacy on issues concerning equality, rights and social justice.
