Transcript
KEMAR KNIGHT
So prior to becoming a Union rep, I could say things more out loud. But after consider people’s feelings a bit more because I’m within a position where in which I can’t let someone feel less favored or as if I’m talking down at them. So I have to be very mindful with my words, number one.
Working with my employers as a Union rep can be challenging at times because Union rep are the union. And the company don’t really see eye to eye at all times, which is understandable. So that can be difficult.
But as a Black leader, it can also be difficult at times because sometimes when I’m in a room, people may say stuff that they themselves don’t perceive as a bit prejudice. But for me, I may find it to be that or wherever with the position that I am in and because I’m in a position where in which I have to be very careful what I say so I won’t say it within the room. I’ll wait at the side and explain to them, earlier, you said something, and it didn’t sound too right. And this is my take on it. Or you may not see it like this, but be very mindful because others may take it differently.
It’s a bit one sided. It can be manipulative. For example, when we go on strike, if the buses or the train go on strike, they make it seems as if we’re all in the country to ransom. They’re not explaining or stipulating on the good deeds that we do for our members.
They don’t explain, like, for example, working standards improve because of the Union. Females got better rights. People from the BAME community have better rights. There’s better regulations and legislations out there now due to the lobbying of the Union.
I believe the media have a responsibility also to share both narrative, to share the narrative of the good of the Union and also the bad of the Union. However, it seems to me, personally, as if they only share the negative side of the Union.
With the Union leader that inspired me, Mr Anafi. When he is fighting for his members, he is fighting as if he is fighting for himself. He is my inspiration because I remember when I told him that the drivers asked him to put my name up. I was doubting myself. And he said I should go on, I can do it, along with my family telling me to do it as well. So it was a concrete decision for me to say, yes, I can do it. And I have some believe in myself. So it’s highly inspirational.