A NEW celebration of Dundee’s communities and trade union links has been announced for next year.

Known as “Speak oot!” events are expected to include film showings, exhibitions, talks and historical walks; as well as exploring they city’s rich heritage in working-class music and song.

Dundee Trades Council warmly welcomed the plans at its December meeting, and called on trade unions and communities across the city and beyond to get involved and organise their own events.

The festival will run from April 12-18 next year to coincide with the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) being held in the city’s Caird Hall, and STUC President Mike Arnott – a proud member of Dundee Trades Council himself – commented:

“Speak Oot will be a festival for all Dundee’s communities connected to trades unionism.

“We are looking to make links with environmental groups, tenants’ groups, youth groups and others.

“Any group that brings people together to further social justice is a welcome participant. Internationalism, history and our connection to the arts will be celebrated.”

Anyone with ideas for events are encouraged to contact Speak oot! via its Facebook page or email speakoot@gmail.com before January 26.