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Arena Magazine 2007 Issue 3 Autumn Arena |
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A tragedy that unites us all
The murder of 11 year-old Rhys Jones is one of those tragic incidents that unite the nation in grief.
I felt it was appropriate to dedicate this foreword to the Jones family, because Rhys's parents, Stephen and Melanie, are both members of Usdaw.
On behalf of the executive council and everyone in the union I have sent a letter of condolence to the family offering our deepest sympathy.
I also wanted to say to Stephen and Melanie that if there is anything Usdaw can do, then we are more than willing to help.
We all know Liverpool, like many big cities, has major problems with a gun and gang culture, which is blighting the lives of both victims, and the innocent young people caught up in its deadly world.
We all share a responsibility for the situation society finds itself in. That's why our message of respect for each other is one that we cannot, and must not, stop repeating.
Trade unions have always been about the community and mutual respect. Union principles of support, solidarity and social justice have shown themselves in abundance in the messages sent to Rhys's family since that terrible day on August 22. I know from talking to Usdaw members that they want these values to have more influence in our troubled society.
When a young innocent life is taken needlessly it makes our other 'issues' pale into insignificance. The death of a child is the worst thing that can happen to a parent but Rhys's murder has shocked us all.
I have to say the family, including Rhys's brother Owen, 17, have conducted themselves with immense dignity since the shooting of their football-loving son. This cannot be easy when the UK's media have you in their spotlight.
Our thoughts are with the Jones family, their relatives, friends and the community on Merseyside at this harrowing time.
John Hannett
General Secretary
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