The Best Artwork Paying Tribute to the Grunwick Dispute

The Grunwick dispute is a sad reminder of the hardships workers encounter in the quest for fair treatment, decency, and respect throughout labour history.

This historic event, which had its origins in the 70s, was a turning point in the continuous struggle for workers’ rights, especially for South Asian women who were at the front of the movement.

The conflict at the Grunwick Film Processing Laboratories in Dollis Hill, northwest London, erupted into a national controversy.

It spurred wider discussions on labour relations, gender, and racial issues.

Jayaben Desai, a strong woman who spearheaded the opposition against harsh working conditions, came to represent the greater fight for equality and social justice in the workplace.

Whilst she was an iconic figure in the Grunwick dispute, she symbolises the hundreds of South Asian women who challenged the government with their actions.

But, for such a milestone in British and South Asian history, not enough is being done to commemorate the event and the people involved…until now.

More pieces of art displayed in public areas are paying tribute to the Grunwick dispute and putting a well-deserved spotlight on the struggles and triumphs of the protests. 

Ealing Road Mural

In northwest London, Brent Council announced a mural commemorating Jayaben Desai, a central figure in the Grunwick dispute, on Ealing Road. 

Jayaben spearheaded employees, who were subjected to both sexism and racism.

They frequently faced abrupt demands for overtime shifts and lived in constant fear of reprisals from management.

Following an incident where Jayaben was unexpectedly asked to work additional hours, she walked out of what she described as a “zoo”, asserting her demand for freedom.

Between 1976 and 1978, she and her colleagues, dubbed “strikers in saris” by the media, protested against various injustices at Grunwick, including unfair dismissals and inadequate pay.

Despite Jayaben’s desperate hunger strike outside the Trades Union Congress in November 1977, their campaign ultimately did not achieve its intended goals.

However, their actions sparked similar movements nationwide.

It prompted a government inquiry that sided with the workers and resulted in some improvements.

Therefore, her and the other employees’ work was cemented forever in this fitting mural. 

This episode is widely regarded as a significant moment in British labour history.

It was the first major protest led by women from minority communities and highlighted the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights.

Chaos – Dan Jones

Amidst a decade marked by industrial turmoil, the Grunwick dispute emerged as a focal point of contention surrounding trade unionism and labour relations law.

At its apex, the conflict embroiled thousands of trade unionists and law enforcement officers in confrontations, sparking widespread controversy. 

Ultimately, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) opted to withdraw its backing of the strike, deeming it an unwinnable battle.

Despite vehement protests, including a hunger strike led by Jayaben outside the TUC headquarters, the strike concluded without the reinstatement of the workers.

However, some concessions regarding the remuneration and pension schemes for current and future employees were secured.

The protest garnered significant media attention.

This unprecedented solidarity forced employers to acknowledge the plight of low-wage workers, particularly those from ethnic minority communities.

Artist Dan Jones solidified his stance on the movement with this painting. 

It shows different parts of the dispute, highlighting the amount of people involved, police brutality, and the bravery of communities. 

Willesden Murals

In September 2018, Willesden, located in northwest London, saw the unveiling of two murals commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Grunwick strike.

These murals represent the first instances of public art dedicated to a collective struggle involving South Asian women in the UK.

There is a smaller mural on Chapter Road, situated across from the former Grunwick factory site. 

Additionally, a larger mural spanning 28 meters in length is just a five-minute walk away on the bridge at Dudden Hill Lane.

These murals serve as a counter-narrative to those who glorify violent and oppressive history.

Instead, they celebrate the remarkable unity and solidarity demonstrated during a struggle for workplace dignity, spearheaded by South Asian women.

In determining an appropriate memorial for the strikers and their supporters, the organisers rejected narratives centred on individual achievement.

Instead of erecting a statue of a single leader, they opted for a bold, colourful mural that not only had a greater visual impact but also could depict numerous participants.

As a result, the mural features representations of miners, postal workers, and various others, emphasising the prominent role of the South Asian women who led the strike.

Grunwick Strike – Dan Jones

Commencing in the summer of 1976, the strike persisted for nearly two years, spanning from August 1976 to July 1978, garnering consistent coverage in national news outlets.

A significant turning point occurred on November 7, 1977, when 8000 demonstrators rallied in Brent in solidarity with Grunwick.

It led to clashes with law enforcement resulting in 234 injuries.

Also, the police arrested 550 protesters, marking the highest arrest count in any labour dispute since the General Strike of 1926.

Grunwick, despite being a small enterprise, employed a substantial number of female and Asian workers who voiced grievances, prompting some to stage walkouts.

This portrayal by Dan Jones, a staunch supporter, captures the scene outside the factory on Chapter Road near Dollis Hill station.

Soho Road Mural

Network Rail and DESIblitz collaborated for months to meticulously plan and design this homage to the Grunwick dispute.

It’s displayed on the sides of the Soho Road bridge in Handsworth.

Vibrantly coloured panels on the railway bridge vividly depict scenes from the historic event.

These newly painted panels showcase the significant contributions made by the Indian and Pakistani communities to British society over the decades.

Renowned Pakistani artist Haider Ali, hailing from Karachi, dedicated five weeks to hand-paint the mural in his distinctive truck art style.

His unique artistic flair, intricate patterns, and captivating storytelling, breathes life into the mural.

The selection of Soho Road as the mural’s location holds profound historical significance.

It was from this very community that the Indian Workers Association dispatched coaches filled with supporters to stand in solidarity with the Grunwick strikers. 

By using art to commemorate the Grunwick dispute, we honour the bravery and tenacity of individuals and make sure that their voices will continue to reverberate for future generations.

These pieces of art serve as a potent tribute to the lasting legacy of the workers’ rights movement.

May these creative tributes motivate us to keep fighting for a society in which every worker is accorded justice, decency, and respect.