Durham Miners' Gala 2025: A Celebration of Solidarity and Struggle
The 139th Durham Miners' Gala, held on 12 July, transformed the historic city of Durham into a vibrant celebration of working-class pride, trade unionism, and international solidarity.
This year’s theme, “We’re Still Here,” marked 41 years since the 1984–85 Miners’ Strike, a pivotal moment in British labour history. The slogan echoed through the banners, speeches, and songs that filled the city, reminding all present that while the pits are gone, the values of solidarity and resistance remain deeply rooted in the community.
Platform Speakers: Voices of resistance and hope
Jeremy Corbyn, Independent MP for Islington North, delivered a passionate speech on the importance of international solidarity and community-led change.
Dr Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian ambassador to the UK, made history as the first Palestinian to speak at the gala. He highlighted the suffering of Palestinian children and called on the UK government to recognise Palestinian statehood.
Three general secretaries, Sharon Graham of Unite, Eddie Dempsey of the RMT and Matt Wrack of NASUWT called for unity across sectors to defend workers’ rights.
Chris Peace of the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign and DMA general secretary Alan Mardghum completed the platform.
PCS Union: Marching in solidarity
PCS played a visible and active role in this year’s gala. Our members gathered at 9.30am at the Whitechurch Free House in Durham before joining the traditional march into the city. Their banners, proudly carried through the streets, were part of the colourful and symbolic procession that included brass bands, community groups, and fellow trade unions.
PCS’s participation underscored its commitment to the values celebrated at the gala – solidarity, equality, and the defence of public services. The union’s presence also served as a reminder of the importance of public sector workers in the broader labour movement, particularly at a time when many face job insecurity, pay restraint, and political hostility.
A day of unity and reflection
The gala concluded with the traditional miners’ festival service at Durham Cathedral, where the acting Bishop of Durham, the Rt Revd Sarah Clarke, blessed three new union banners.
The 2025 Durham Miners' Gala was a celebration of the past and a rallying cry for the future.
As Alan Mardghum declared: “The pits are no more, but we are still here and the slogans on our banners have not changed.”