Remembering Vale Rawlins
As Midlands regional secretary, I recently had the honour of speaking at Burton trades council about the life and legacy of Vale Rawlins, a name that deserves to be remembered by everyone in the trade union movement.
Vale’s story is one of courage, commitment, and conviction. He was a dedicated trade unionist who stood up for fairness and justice in the workplace, often at great personal cost. His refusal to be silenced, his determination to defend workers’ rights, and his belief in collective strength are values that remain at the heart of PCS today.
At a time when trade unionists are again facing hostility for speaking up, when activists are being disciplined for defending equality and fairness, and when working people are under attack from cuts, privatisation, and right-wing narratives, Vale’s story feels more relevant than ever.
We talked about how the issues Vale fought for - dignity at work, fair pay, respect, and equality are still our battles. Whether it’s defending our reps against victimisation, challenging far-right ideas that seek to divide us, or fighting for better conditions across the civil service and beyond, the struggle continues in his spirit.
The discussion at Burton trades council reminded everyone present that history isn’t something we simply look back on; it’s something we carry forward. Vale Rawlins’ example calls on all of us to keep organising, keep resisting, and keep building a movement rooted in solidarity.
Our union’s strength has always come from ordinary members doing extraordinary things. Vale showed what that looks like, and his story continues to inspire PCS members across the Midlands today.
Read more about Vale Rawlins on the Society for the Study of Labour History website.