​The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has forged a new partnership with the Lupus Association of Antigua and Barbuda, beginning with a EC$2,500 donation and a broader commitment aimed at strengthening public awareness, education, and support for individuals living with lupus.

The contribution was officially presented on Friday during POP (Put on Purple) Day, an initiative designed to raise awareness about lupus and its impact on individuals and families.

General Secretary of the ABWU, David Massiah, said the donation represents more than financial support, describing it as the beginning of a meaningful alliance focused on advocacy and assistance for people affected by the chronic autoimmune disease.

“Today, we are not simply making a presentation. We are making a commitment rooted in solidarity,” Massiah said.

He noted that many workers throughout Antigua and Barbuda continue to face the daily realities of living with lupus while balancing 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.

Massiah also highlighted that lupus remains widely misunderstood, partly because many of its symptoms are not immediately visible, despite the physical, emotional, mental, and financial burdens often associated with the disease.

President of the Lupus Association, Linda Mussington, welcomed the partnership and expressed optimism that the collaboration would expand the organisation’s reach, particularly 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.

Assistant Secretary Stacey Ladoo also expressed gratitude for the Union’s contribution and praised ABWU for its longstanding service to workers and communities across the country as the organisation celebrates its 59th anniversary.

The partnership is expected to strengthen awareness efforts and help create greater understanding and support for people living with lupus throughout Antigua and Barbuda.