Heerlen honors Trade Union ABW with street name
In tribute to Vakbond ABW, in honor of Heerlen's 80-year liberation, Heerlen is getting a new street name: the "Vakbond ABW path. The street name has been assigned to a path near Nieuw Eyckholt near the union's headquarters.
Alderman Casper Gelderblom emphasises the important role of the trade union: “The ABW trade union has been a pillar of support for Limburg workers for 80 years. By awarding this street name, we not only want to honour their rich history, but also underline their continued commitment to social justice and labour rights. The awarding of this street name is therefore a symbolic recognition of the importance and value of trade unions in Heerlen.”
Historical connection
The ABW union, founded on Sept. 23, 1944, has traditionally been deeply rooted in Heerlen and the region. Originally founded as the Algemene Bond van Werkers in het Mijnbedrijf (ABWM), the union adapted over the years to changing economic conditions. After the closure of the mines, ABW expanded its focus to include all workers, both inside and outside the mining sector. Since 2003, the union has been known as Vakbond ABW, promoting the interests of both working and non-working people in Limburg.
The chairman of the Vakbond ABW, Jack Hurxkens, is also pleased with this street name: "It is a great honor that the municipality of Heerlen has chosen to name a path after our union, just as we are celebrating our 80th anniversary. This path symbolizes our long history of struggle and solidarity for the workers of Limburg. It reminds us that we always want to be close to the people, past and present. We will continue to work for everyone who needs our support, with the same dedication and commitment that we have shown over the past eight decades."
Unveiling
We will organize the official unveiling of this street name at a later date together with the union.