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Women protesting against the closure of Swindon Works, 1985
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Women protesting against the closure of Swindon Works, 1985
This group of female protestors were photographed in 1985 campaigning against the planned closure of Swindon Works, which happened the following year. Two of the protestors are wearing placards with the abbreviation ‘tessa, which was the Transport Salaried Staffs Association. We don't know if these women were employees in the Works or were wives of employees. However the closure of the Works affected women as much as men, as families throughout Swindon and beyond were impacted by the mass redundancies
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 32209005
Swindon Works Women 1985 1986 Brel Closure Placard Protestor Tessa
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This powerful print captures a pivotal moment in history - women protesting against the closure of Swindon Works in 1985. Standing united, these brave protestors were captured on film as they campaigned against the impending shutdown of this significant industrial site. Little did they know that their efforts would be in vain, as the closure occurred the following year. Amongst this group of determined women, two stand out with placards bearing the abbreviation 'tessa', representing the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association. Whether employees or wives of workers at Swindon Works, these women understood that the closure would have far-reaching consequences for both men and women alike. The impact was not limited to just those directly employed by Swindon Works; families throughout Swindon and beyond felt its effects through mass redundancies. This image serves as a poignant reminder that gender played no role when it came to fighting for livelihoods and standing up against injustice. Decades later, this photograph continues to resonate with its timeless message of unity and resilience. It stands as a testament to the strength and determination displayed by these remarkable women who fought tirelessly for their community's survival during challenging times.
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