Remember Rio Claro's 'Bloody Tuesday' martyrs

The article calls for remembrance of a pivotal, yet often overlooked, event in Trinidad and Tobago's history: "Bloody Tuesday" in Rio Claro on June 22, 1937. On this day, workers protesting for improved wages and living conditions clashed with police, an event that had profound and tragic consequences.

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We have to look at the tragic events which took place here, in front of the Scale House in Rio Claro on Bloody Tuesday, June 22nd 1937.

Brinsley Samaroo, a former Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, referred to the day as "Bloody Tuesday" during the 50th anniversary commemoration. He asserted that the sacrifices of the Rio Claro citizens were not in vain, as their struggle laid the foundation for the birth of the labor movement, including the Oilfield Workers Trade Union and The All Trinidad Sugar Workers Union.

Historian George Montique, who termed the incident "The Loving Riot" after a man named Lovell Coombs, detailed how a scuffle escalated into police firing upon the crowd. The violence resulted in four immediate deaths and 21 injuries, including an 11-year-old girl. Nationwide, the Butler Riots claimed 14 lives, with five from Rio Claro and 21 of the 44 injured also from the area.

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...these citizens in Rio Claro, bold and brave men and women, did not die in vain. It was as a result of their heroic struggle that the labour movement was born; the Oilfield Workers Trade Union and The All Trinidad Sugar Workers Union'.

Despite the historical significance, the article laments the lack of tangible recognition for the lives lost nearly nine decades ago. It highlights the efforts of George Montique and the June 22, 1937 Committee, who are working to erect a monument at the site of the tragedy. A unveiling is planned for the 89th anniversary in 2026, an initiative described as long overdue for Rio Claro.

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Young man, where you going? You must be mad!