The critical role of class solidarity in worker resistance and the example of İzmir

It is emphasized that the successes achieved by Temel Conta workers in their struggle for rights were not the product of a struggle waged alone, but rather the result of a real and social class solidarity. The history of the working class's struggle has proven time and again the importance of the contacts established between different segments and the common front they created. In this context, it is seen that solidarity is not only a moral support but also a concrete strategy that combines material and spiritual strength.

The period of the 'İzmir Sendikalar Birliği' (İzmir Trade Unions Union) established in İzmir in the past constitutes one of the most concrete and exemplary times of this understanding of solidarity. The coming together of union branches, affiliated with different confederations but with militant identities in the foreground, beyond all differences, gave great strength to the worker movements of that period. It is clearly evident that acting in unity and solidarity prepares a highly suitable ground for the continuity of worker resistance.

This structure created together prevented the resistance in different occupational sectors from being isolated from each other and raised the struggle to a total level. As seen in the example of İzmir, a strike in a single factory or sector grew with the support of unions in other occupational sectors and turned into a victory. In this process, it was seen that the divisions at the upper levels of the unions could be overcome with the fraternity and solidarity power of the workers at the grassroots.

Class solidarity is a basic element that keeps the motivation of the workers high not only during the strike but also in the long-term process during which the resistance continues. History shows that worker movements that only care about their own problems weaken, but only movements that can make the problems of all the oppressed and laborers their own can succeed. The experience of Temel Conta workers can also be evaluated as a re-manifestation of this historical fact.

Consequently, the factor playing the key role in winning worker struggles is the ability of various union structures and occupational sectors to meet on a common ground. The İzmir Sendikalar Birliği experience carries a guiding model quality regarding how branches in different confederations can unite around a common purpose. This culture of solidarity extending from the past to the present sheds light on today's worker struggles and continues to be a fervent hope on the road to success.