Delivering Justice: Towards a History of Food Delivery Workers’ Organising
In the summer of 2016, Deliveroo workers in London openly took collective action for the first time – first in opposition to punitive immigration raids, and then against a severe pay cut. In the years since, food delivery in the so-called “gig economy” has emerged as a site of intense struggle between workers and “platform” companies. Strike waves regularly spread across multiple towns and cities, alongside local wildcat strikes and long-term efforts to organise this defiant workforce.
Join us to discuss the history and future of food delivery workers’ struggle in Britain. Morgan Rhys Powell, from the Leeds Index of Platform Labour Protest, will present research on the major events and developments in workers’ organising efforts. Alex Marshall, President of the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) and a former courier of eight years, will discuss the successes and challenges of unionisation in the sector. And Celestino Santos Pereira, a Brazilian food delivery worker who joined the IWGB after a strike in February 2024, will discuss his experience of work and of fighting for better conditions.
This event is co-hosted by the Leeds Index of Platform Labour Protest and Digit: The Digital Futures At Work Research Centre.
As part of this event, we invite donations of materials from food delivery workers’ campaigns (such as leaflets, placards and banners) to the Library. Please bring any relevant materials that you would like to donate to the event.
Note for Attendees
Our events space has a ramp on entry, an accessible toilet and air purifier, with masks available to attendees on entry. If you have any access requirements then please let us know in advance of the event so we can make your visit as comfortable as we can.
Search for the words lots.gosh.vocal on what3words.com to find the entrance that leads to the events space. The events space is through the double gates and can be found on your right.
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Community Policy
The history of the groups, campaigns and individuals who make up our collection at the Working Class Movement Library has a wide range of positions and the Library is committed to ensuring that this range is available for people to explore for themselves. Although respectful debate is encouraged, we will not tolerate sexism, homophobia, racism, transphobia, nor oppressive language or behaviour based on any structural inequality, including disability, socio-economic status, sexuality, age, education, religious affiliation, or gender expression. All who use our space, both the physical Library and its virtual spaces, share responsibility for maintaining it as a safe and welcoming one.
If you have any questions prior to your visit, then please contact us on – events@wcml.org.uk