The Hunger Marches of the 1920s are being emulated by modern day food campaigners in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
In 1927, miners and other trade unionists set off from the Rhondda to London in the very first hunger march. They were fighting against government cuts and lack of aid to the poorest in society.
Nearly 100 years later, in the face of plummeting living standards, trade unionists and allies are again marching to campaign against hunger and the cost-of-living crisis.
Wales football legend Neville Southall will be among the speakers, along with representatives from local food banks, and Cynon Valley MP Beth Winter.
Campaigners say they are calling on the UK Government to enshrine the Right to Food in law, but also collecting food and cash donations for local food banks to support people in urgent need.
Marchers will depart from the Cynon, Rhondda and Taff valleys on Saturday 27th January. They will descend on Pontypridd, where they will congregate at YMa for a rally, calling on the UK Government to enshrine the Right to Food in law.
The public are invited to join the marchers for the final stretch of the march, through Pontypridd and into the venue.
AJ Le Brun from Rhondda Cynon Taf Trades Union Council said, “It is a shocking reflection on modern Britain that communities like ours are again suffering rampant food insecurity and abject poverty. In one of the richest countries in the world, that is an absolute disgrace.”
CWU Rep Jason Richards added, “We will be calling the UK Government to action to end food poverty. We will also be collecting for brilliant local food banks on the day, so please bring a tin to share if you are able.”
“We call on people to join trade unions, charities and campaigners to join us and march in Pontypridd on 27th January for the Right to Food.”
Those interested in joining the marchers should email RCTTradesCouncil@gmail.com.
Spaces are limited for the rally. Supporters should book their place via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/right-to-food-rally-pontypridd-tickets-747675977977
