Organizing Indian diaspora in Britain since 1938.
Integral to the glorious struggles of the Indian workers in the UK.
Indian Workers’ Association (GB)
Indian Workers’ Association (GB) is a democratically organised association dedicated to safeguarding the rights and improving the lives of people of Indian origin in the UK. With a focus on uniting Indian workers, the IWA (GB) advocates for better working conditions, encourages active participation in trade unions, and fosters solidarity with the broader labour movement. Committed to combating all forms of discrimination—be it based on race, colour, creed, or gender—the IWA (GB) champions equal human rights and social and economic justice. Beyond its work in Great Britain, the association expresses solidarity with global struggles for freedom, peace, and democracy while promoting awareness of social, political, and economic developments in India. Through its wide-ranging activities in social welfare, cultural engagement, and advocacy, the IWA (GB) continues to strengthen community ties and advance progressive causes both locally and internationally.
“Unite, Empower, and Make a Difference!”
Become a proud member of the Indian Workers Association (GB) and join a community dedicated to advocating for workers’ rights, fostering unity, and preserving our rich heritage. Together, we can create a stronger voice for justice, equality, and progress. Your participation helps shape a brighter future for all.
Unveiling the Roots, Inspiring the Future
The Indian Workers’ Association (IWA) was founded in Coventry, UK, in 1938, initially to support India’s independence movement. Over time, the IWA evolved to focus on addressing the social and economic challenges faced by Indian-migrant workers in the UK. By 1958, local branches across the country united to form the national IWA, advocating for improved working conditions, social justice, and racial equality.
The IWA played a key role in challenging discrimination in housing, education, and employment, while also collaborating with trade unions to fight against racism and exploitation. It became a central force in the UK’s civil rights struggles, contributing to broader national and international campaigns for equality. Today, the IWA continues to be an important part of the legacy of Indian workers’ activism in the UK
Organization
The Indian Workers’ Association (GB) holds a distinguished legacy of advocating for workers’ rights and racial equality, a mission that remains profoundly relevant in the face of escalating anti-immigrant sentiment and the resurgence of far-right movements across Europe. While the socio-economic and political landscapes have evolved, the IWA (GB) continues to adapt and confront the modern challenges posed by a diversified economy and the precarious nature of contemporary employment.
The Legacy and Vision of IWA (GB):
- The Power of Collective Advocacy
The IWA (GB) exemplifies the transformative potential of collective action in driving systemic change. Its work underscores the importance of organised efforts to challenge exploitation and injustice, particularly in industries disproportionately reliant on migrant labour. This enduring commitment to collective advocacy remains a cornerstone of its mission. - Evolving to Address Modern Challenges
While the overt racial discrimination of the 1960s and 1970s defined an earlier era of struggle, today’s challenges are often more covert—manifesting as systemic inequalities entrenched in the gig economy and digital platforms that circumvent traditional labour protections. The IWA (GB) continues to lead the charge, innovating its strategies to address these complexities and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable workers in an ever-changing economic environment. - Intersectional Advocacy and Solidarity
Recognizing that oppression often operates at the intersection of race, class, and immigration status, the IWA (GB) is committed to addressing these overlapping injustices. Indian workers, whether migrants or long-settled communities face layered challenges such as economic exploitation, systemic discrimination, and insecure immigration statuses. The IWA (GB)’s approach embraces this intersectionality to foster robust and inclusive movements that build genuine solidarity and resistance.
As a democratically organised, member-led association, the IWA (GB) stands as a beacon of resistance against both entrenched and emerging injustices. Its enduring legacy is a call to action, urging contemporary movements to rise to the challenges of today’s labour and migration dynamics with the same passion and determination that defined its historic struggles. In doing so, the IWA (GB) remains steadfast in its vision of equality, dignity, and justice for all.
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Solidarity
The Indian Workers’ Association (GB) has long recognized the trade union movement as a critical ally in the fight for workers’ rights and social justice. Acting as a vital conduit between marginalized communities and organized labour, the IWA encourages its members to actively participate in trade unions, from grassroots involvement to pursuing leadership positions at the highest levels. This commitment ensures that the voices of migrant and minority workers are heard and represented within the broader worker’s movement.
As independent researcher Sarah Peck aptly observes, the IWA functions as a “bridge to Trade Unions,” fostering collaboration and mutual empowerment. Yet, the IWA remains vigilant, acknowledging that trade unions themselves can sometimes reflect systemic inequities such as racism or sexism. Through persistent advocacy, the IWA works to address and dismantle these barriers, striving to make unions more inclusive and equitable spaces.
Equally significant is the IWA’s engagement with local Trades Councils, which serve as essential hubs for grassroots organizing and community-level activism. By strengthening these partnerships, the IWA enhances its capacity to campaign effectively and achieve tangible change.
As a broad-based, democratically organized campaign group, the IWA leverages its collective strength to act as a dynamic pressure group. Its collaboration with trade unions exemplifies a strategic commitment to amplifying workers’ rights while holding all institutions accountable to the principles of equality and justice.
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Services
The Indian Workers’ Association(GB) provides advocacy, guidance, and resources to support Indian workers, ensuring their wellbeing, representation, and access to essential services.
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News
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