The majority of Civil Liberty campaigns tend to concentrate upon restrictions to our right to demonstrate or upon the curtailment of individual liberties. We should never forget, however, the threat to our rights at work.Once a worker who campaigned for Trade Union recognition or improved pay and conditions worked under the threat of being disciplined, sacked or even 'blacklisted' amongst his chosen trade. Some were even violently attacked. A man's politics could also be held against him.
Today, a man's politics is again being used by bosses to justify persecution in the workplace, particularly in the public sector. Certain views are being held as 'unacceptable'. Sanctions are imposed even though there is no evidence the views held have any bearing upon the profession or an individual's actual behaviour. In contrast, Civil Liberty does not distinguish or limit freedom upon the basis of an individual's political philosophy or party affiliation. Rights are universal!
One example of public service bosses singling out an individual for their political views is that of Mark Walker.
MARK WALKER NEEDS YOUR HELP
Mark was a teacher in County Durham in the North East of England. His employers advanced many shifting accusations against him. However it was obvious to both Mark and his trade union Solidarity that the bosses real motivation was his affiliation to the British National Party (BNP). The accusations were being used as a fig-leaf for a campaign of harassment and vilification.
After suspending him his employer then spent a great deal of time saying it wasn't really political and attempted to blacken his name with all kinds of spurious accusations. In the end Mark's health deteriorated. His employer then dismissed him on health grounds! This is being challenged at an Employment Tribunal in Newcastle upon Tyne. It is important to fight injustice!
A Barrister's opinion was instrumental in preparing Mark's case. Civil Liberty and Mark's trade union Solidarity both helped to raise the necessary funds. In order to give Mark the best possible represenation at the Tribunal we need to engage further legal assistance. The bosses will hire top barristers and solicitors to work on this complex case. We need to ensure there is a level playing field or justice cannot be done. Fighting persecution and injustice doesn't come cheap. Even before the Employment Tribunal proper there is a pre-case hearing. Whatever the cost it is important that we show that persecution will be challenged. Mark has not been intimidated. He has stood firm for his principles and his political freedom. This has been at a high personal cost.
We know what needs to be done to help give Mark a fighting chance of obtaining justice. Will you help us give him that chance?
We need to raise the money very quickly. We urge you to send a donation, however large or small, to:
Civil Liberty,
P.O. Box 1132,
Newcastle upon Tyne,
NE99 4YT,
Please make all cheques and postal orders payable to 'Civil Liberty'.
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