“I am only now realizing the significance of this conference"

We used photos to show which Indian colleagues we organized the conference with and how we collected donations, for example. This was unusual at first, but over time the workers collectively collected the donations during work and then handed them over to us. We are proud to be financially independent so that we can also make politically free decisions, for which collecting donations is essential. We reported on how we discussed, demonstrated, ate, and celebrated with them. Never before have we been so aware that, despite major differences, our work, conditions, and problems are so similar, such as the abuse of temporary work to divide the working class. This lived proletarian internationalism must also be placed in the context of the current world situation. To this end, we briefly exposed the global crisis and the No. 1 warmonger, the US, which is asserting its claim to power over Venezuela, Greenland, etc. Where this policy leads can be seen particularly in Gaza, a hotspot of the destructive forces of imperialism, as well as in Rojava. Only in this light does the deeper meaning of international workers' unity become apparent. This currently includes the first general strike in 80 years in Minnesota against ICE terror—what a force! All of this calls for more international connections and cooperation!

In the discussion, we focused on taking on more responsibility for establishing international contacts and coordinating struggles. We want to combine this with practical activities such as preparing for May 1. Specifically, we want to deepen cooperation with Mercedes-Benz and, following last year's visit to Ludwigsfelde, Düsseldorf, and Ludwigsfelde/Marienfelde (Greater Berlin area), bring them together. Internationally, we want to establish contact with Jawor, Poland, because Mercedes-Benz is setting up a van production facility there. In Düsseldorf, we are threatened with the relocation of the Sprinter to that location in the future. We will not allow ourselves to be divided! This must prevail against the influence of reformist ideas that focus solely on ensuring that jobs in Düsseldorf are “secured.” But also against AfD slogans such as “Düsseldorf First.” That is diametrically opposed to solidarity. On March 21, the International Day Against Racism, we want to organize solidarity with Justice Quvane from South Africa, because he is suing Mercedes-Benz South Africa for structural racism. It was fitting that we ended by singing the anti-fascist song “Bella Ciao” in English.

We send solidarity greetings from the event to the strikers at Exide/Pune/India (see photo).

We decorated the room (hung up IAC and IGM flags), set up group tables, served delicious Indian food (accompanied by beautiful background music), and collected donations for the International Automotive Workers' Coordination. With 122 euros in proceeds, we have replenished our coffers.