The Antigua and Barbuda Workers' Union (ABWU) has formed a new partnership with the Lupus Association of Antigua and Barbuda, launching the collaboration with a EC$2,500 donation and a broader commitment to strengthening public awareness, education, and support for those living with the chronic autoimmune disease.
According to Antigua.news, the contribution was officially presented on Friday during POP (Put on Purple) Day, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about lupus and its impact on individuals and families across the country.
ABWU General Secretary David Massiah described the donation as the foundation of a meaningful alliance rather than a one-time gesture. "Today, we are not simply making a presentation. We are making a commitment rooted in solidarity," Massiah said.
Massiah acknowledged that many workers throughout Antigua and Barbuda navigate the daily realities of living with lupus while also managing employment responsibilities and caring for their families. "The ABWU is proud to stand alongside the Lupus Association as we work together to raise awareness about a condition that affects many individuals and families within our nation," he added.
The ABWU General Secretary also noted that lupus remains widely misunderstood, in part because many of its symptoms are not immediately visible, despite the significant physical, emotional, mental, and financial burdens the disease can impose.
Lupus Association President Linda Mussington welcomed the partnership and expressed confidence that the collaboration would broaden the organisation's reach, especially among younger people. "With the Antigua Workers' Union, I know that the exposure is going to really take us further, because we have also seen that there are so many young people in Antigua that have lupus," Mussington said.
ABWU Assistant Secretary Stacey Ladoo also expressed gratitude for the Union's involvement and praised the organisation for its longstanding service to workers and communities across Antigua and Barbuda, as the ABWU marks its 59th anniversary.
The partnership is expected to expand awareness efforts and foster greater understanding and support for people living with lupus throughout the twin-island nation.
