After more than six months since their establishment, over 200 members from three unions—motorbike taxi drivers, construction workers, and beauticians—in Thu Dau Mot city have gradually stabilized their operations. Many workers have been afforded opportunities for additional employment and improved their livelihoods.
The construction of aesthetic images
During the Full Moon Festival in lunar January, tourists from various provinces and cities visiting and worshipping at pagodas in Thu Dau Mot City are not only captivated by the beautiful, civilized, orderly, and hospitable nature of the local residents but also find it difficult to forget the complimentary bus services.
Mr. Truong Hoa Hiep, Chairman of the Motorbike Taxi Union, reflected: “After more than a decade in this profession, this is the first year in my life that I have consistently offered free rides. Many tourists have boarded my bike and expressed a desire to pay or offer lucky money, feeling embarrassed about taking a zero-dong ride, but I declined. If I had the financial capacity, I would continue to provide zero-dong rides daily to assist others.”
With the support of the local authority and the Thu Dau Mot city Trade Union, approximately 30 members of the local motorbike taxi union were assigned by the festival organizing committee to monitor various routes around Thu Market and Ba Thien Hau Temple from 6 AM to 9 PM, from the 12th to the 15th of the first lunar month. The union members not only demonstrate diligence and commitment to each trip but also maintain a courteous demeanor, thereby fostering a professional image. Mr. Le Van Thanh, a member from Hiep Thanh Ward, remarked, “I am very pleased to contribute my efforts to create a positive image during the festival season. Prior to this, local authorities clearly instructed the members not to accept payment from customers and to communicate politely. Many tourists, upon leaving, requested our phone numbers to stay in touch... The memories of those days are truly unforgettable.”
Mrs. Huynh Thi Tuyet Loan, President of the Thu Dau Mot city Trade Union, stated that a significant number of freelance workers in Thu Dau Mot city remain vulnerable to economic fluctuations. “The formation of grassroots unions and the recruitment of union members primarily aim to foster a spirit of mutual support and assistance, enabling individuals to aid one another in their professional endeavors during challenging times. The union also advocates for the protection of legitimate rights and interests, providing workers with a support system and facilitating their gradual involvement in organized activities,” Mrs. Loan remarked. |
Currently, Hiep and Thanh's group has resumed their regular activities. Nevertheless, the vivid memories and resonances of the festival season, along with the monthly and quarterly initiatives at the union, have enabled each member to continually enhance their professional awareness. Truong Hoa Hiep remarked, "Since the establishment of the union, we have forged connections and gained insights into each member's life. Those facing challenging circumstances receive additional support to cover their living expenses. Even when individuals lack sufficient funds for their transportation, we remain understanding and supportive."
Each day, while earning a livelihood, the members of the Motorbike Taxi Union also maintain cleanliness in the vicinity of the passenger pick-up area; oversee security and order, monitor suspicious individuals for timely reporting to local authorities, and assist individuals involved in traffic accidents.
Assist one another in securing employment
For the members of the Construction and Aesthetics Union, they have progressively established their own regulations to function effectively and systematically. Mr. Nguyen Quoc Hung, Chairman of the Construction and Aesthetics Union, stated: “The Union comprises 87 members. Our work possesses unique characteristics; each individual is engaged in different projects, often working on Saturdays and Sundays, which limits our opportunities to convene. To facilitate communication, I created a Zalo group to connect members.”
Mr. Hung noted that previously, individuals worked independently, and there were times when tasks were scarce. However, the current work environment has significantly improved. Any project requiring workers or assistance is promptly communicated to the group, ensuring that no one is left waiting for assignments.
According to Mr. Hung, since joining the union, there has been a palpable excitement among members, as the Thu Dau Mot City Labor Federation demonstrates a commitment to supporting those facing hardships and health challenges. All members receive gifts from the union and local community during Tet. “The union serves as a collective refuge for everyone to depend on. Our work frequently involves various risks, including accidents and instances of labor exploitation when contractors face financial difficulties or abscond. In such situations, the union is prepared to provide assistance,” stated Mr. Hung.
Representing the beauty union, Ms. Vo Thi Hong Trinh, the union's President, stated that through collaborations with the Thu Dau Mot City Labor Federation, the union has recently implemented programs to support vocational training for young individuals seeking to acquire skills, generate employment opportunities, and alleviate tuition costs during their training. All establishments provide discount programs for workers in need of beauty services.
In general, since officially joining unions, many freelance workers have secured stable employment, provided mutual support in their lives, and reinforced family connections. The Thu Dau Mot City Labor Federation has consistently established robust unions, enhancing the material and spiritual well-being of its members. Beyond offering gifts, employment opportunities, and assistance for hospital visits, the union is also facilitating the construction and renovation of "Union Shelters" for its members in the near future.
“Many union members face challenging circumstances and are currently renting their homes. We intend to solicit feedback from union leaders and convene meetings to establish a mutual support fund. Each month, every member will contribute 100,000 VND, although lower contributions are also acceptable. Once the reserve fund reaches its target, we will allocate these resources to visit and assist members who are unwell, have experienced accidents, or encounter unforeseen hardships. Should the fund grow larger, the union will utilize it to provide financial assistance to members in need, enabling them to invest in business ventures and generate income. ”. (Mr. Nguyen Quoc Hung, Chairman of the Construction Workers' Union) |
Reported by Quang Tam - Translated by Vi Bao
