Dominica Amalgamated Workers’ Union (DAWU)

The Dominica Amalgamated Workers’ Union (DAWU) is one of Dominica’s most influential trade unions, advocating for the rights, welfare, and dignity of workers across a wide range of industries. Since its inception, DAWU has played a central role in shaping labor relations, empowering employees through collective bargaining, and contributing to national dialogue on economic justice and social protection.

Founding and Historical Roots of Dominica Amalgamated Workers’ Union (DAWU)

The union’s origins can be traced to December 1960, when Frederick Joseph, a former official of the Dominica Trade Union (DTU), founded the Dominica Banana Employees Association. This association was created during a time when the banana industry was Dominica’s economic backbone, and workers in the sector faced harsh and unregulated conditions. The association quickly gained support among banana workers and eventually expanded to represent workers from various sectors. This expansion and diversification led to the formation of the Dominica Amalgamated Workers’ Union, officially replacing the original banana-focused association.

Mission and Representation

DAWU is dedicated to promoting fair wages, safe working conditions, job security, and social protections for all workers under its representation. The union covers a wide array of sectors including agriculture, tourism, banking, government services, manufacturing, and retail. It is structured to support both public and private sector employees and often engages with employers, policymakers, and international organizations to ensure that labor standards are upheld.

Structure and Leadership

DAWU operates under a structured leadership framework comprising a General Secretary, executive officers, and union representatives who liaise with workplace committees. As of recent reports, Elias Leah Shillingford serves as the Acting General Secretary of the union. Her leadership reflects DAWU’s commitment to gender equity and capacity-building, and she continues to lead several initiatives aimed at strengthening worker rights advocacy and legal literacy among union members.

Regional and Global Affiliations

DAWU is affiliated with the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), positioning it as part of a broader global movement advocating for labor rights, democratic freedoms, and social justice. It also works closely with the Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), allowing it to benefit from training programs, research initiatives, and policy support.

In August 2024, DAWU’s international engagement was further highlighted when Shillingford was selected to participate in a three-week ILO training program on International Labour Standards. The workshop focused on empowering Caribbean trade unionists to effectively promote and monitor ILS implementation at the national level.

Achievements and Impact

Over the years, DAWU has successfully negotiated collective agreements, secured better working conditions, improved pension and severance arrangements, and fought for recognition of trade union rights in workplaces previously resistant to unionization. Its advocacy has contributed to greater transparency in employer-employee relations and helped raise awareness of labor laws among both workers and employers.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While DAWU remains a cornerstone of labor advocacy in Dominica, it faces challenges common to unions worldwide: declining union membership, shifting labor markets, informal employment, and political resistance to progressive labor reforms. However, DAWU’s proactive approach to worker education, digital engagement, and international collaboration ensures it remains a vital institution in protecting workers’ rights.

The Dominica Amalgamated Workers’ Union continues to serve as a powerful voice for labor justice, championing equality, safety, and economic dignity for all Dominican workers.