Celebrating International Migrants Day: A Historic Milestone for Unite’s Domestic Workers Branch
International Migrants Day is always a meaningful moment for migrant communities, but this year’s celebration by the Unite the Union Domestic Workers Branch felt especially powerful. It wasn’t just about marking a date on the calendar; it was about recognising how far migrant domestic workers have come and celebrating a historic step forward in the trade union movement.
The Domestic Workers Branch was established on 2 February 2025, and it holds a unique place in history as the first migrant domestic workers’ branch within a trade union anywhere in the world. For so long, domestic workers have been excluded, isolated, and overlooked. This branch exists because migrant domestic workers refused to stay invisible and chose instead to organise, stand together, and claim their rightful space within the labour movement.
The International Migrants Day event was well attended and filled with warmth, solidarity, and a strong sense of pride. It was encouraging to be joined by Unite leaders and allies, including London and Eastern Regional Secretary Steve O’Donnell, Regional Officer Janet MacLeod, BAEM Chair John Nublemunn, Vice-Chair Diane Roberts, and former Assistant General Secretary Diana Holland. Their presence mattered deeply to members, showing real support and recognition for migrant domestic workers and the struggles they continue to face.
What truly made the day special, though, were the members themselves. The celebration became a joyful showcase of the branch’s diversity, creativity, and talent. Members shared parts of their cultures and stories through performances that included cultural dances, drama, and Christmas carols. Each performance reflected not only artistic ability but also resilience, courage, and pride in identity.
One of the most memorable moments was the Christmas competition, where members created Christmas decorations using recycled materials. It brought laughter, excitement, and a strong sense of togetherness, while also highlighting how resourceful and imaginative our members are. It was a simple but powerful reminder that creativity does not depend on wealth, and that even in challenging circumstances, joy and expression find a way.
This celebration was more than an event. It was a statement that migrant domestic workers belong in trade unions, that our voices matter, and that our contributions go far beyond the workplace. The Unite Domestic Workers Branch is not just building representation; it is building confidence, leadership, and community.
As we marked International Migrants Day together, we also looked ahead with hope and determination. This branch is living proof that change is possible when migrant workers organise and support one another. The journey continues, but this moment reminded us that history is already being made by migrant domestic workers, for migrant domestic workers.
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