[olympiaworkers] Iranian bus workers’ statement on the demonstrations

Libcom.org June 21, 2009

Statement of the Syndicate of Workers of Tehran and Suburbs Vahed Bus
Company about the recent unrest sparked by discontent with the claimed
results of the 2009 election.

Vahed Syndicate – Any Suppression or threat of civil liberty condemned

In line with the recognition of the labour rights, we request that June 26
Action Day – Justice for Iranian workers – to include the human rights of
all Iranians who have been deprived of their rights.

In recent days, we continue witnessing the magnificent demonstration of
millions of people from all ages, genders, and national and religious
minorities in Iran. They request that their basic human rights,
particularly the right to freedom and to choose independently and without
deception be recognized. These rights are not only constitutional in most
of the countries, but also have been protected against all odds.

Amid such turmoil, one witnesses threats, arrests, murders and brutal
suppression that one fears only to escalate on all its aspects, resulting
in more innocent bloodshed, more protests, and certainly no retreats.
Iranian society is facing a deep political-economical crisis.
Million-strong silent protests, ironically loud with un-spoken words, have
turned into iconic stature and are expanding from all sides. These
protests demand reaction from each and every responsible individual and
institution.

As previously expressed in a statement published on-line in May of this
year, since the Vahead Syndicate does not view any of the candidates
support the activities of the workers' organizations in Iran, it would not
endorse any presidential candidate in the election. Vahed members
nevertheless have the right to participate or not to participate in the
elections and vote for their individually selected candidate.

Moreover, the fact remains that demands of almost an absolute majority of
the Iranians go far beyond the demands of a particular group. In the past,
we have emphasized that until the freedom of choice and right to organize
are not recognized, talk of any social or particular right would be more
of a mockery than a reality.

The Syndicate of Workers of Tehran and Suburbs Vahed Bus Company fully
supports this movement of Iranian people to build a free and independent
civil society and condemns any violence and oppression.

In line with the recognition of the labour rights, the Syndicate requests
that June 26 which has been called by the International Trade Unions
Organization 'Day of action' for justice for Iranian workers to include
the human rights of all Iranians who have been deprived of their rights.

With hope for freedom and equality

The Syndicate of Workers of Tehran and Suburbs Vahed Bus Company