An innovative project that will allow trade unionists and activists to meet in a virtual online world begins on May Day.

According to 'UNI' (Union Network International), 'Union Island' which forms part of the virtual online world of 'Second Life'™, will allow visitors access to training and networking - linking up trade unions in many European countries.

'Union Island' is a joint project of the TUC, UNI Global Union and the New Unionism Network, supported by unions from the UK, Germany and Italy.

Events planned for the day include:

* 5 hours in the presence of UNI staff from the Commerce, Finance, Gaming, Temporary Work Agencies and Social Insurance sectors as well as a tour of the island in English, French and Italian

* A dance party, hosted by live DJ from Second Life's club Fracture.

* Training in how to get more out of Second Life™ and how to run better union websites

* A photo and video exhibition for the DGB's Mindestlohn campaign for a national minimum wage in Germany. May Day sees the culmination of a street party tour of Germany, and German unionists will be on hand at a Second Life replica of the real life touring set, to discuss the tour and campaign online with supporters from around Germany.

* Themed surgeries for union organisers in Union Island's virtual bar, swapping practical tips from around the world over a pint of virtual beer from the UK "Workers' Beer Company".

* Guided gallery tours of "5 Photographers", a virtual art exhibition of 20th century New York photography, presented by American arts group Labour Arts Inc.

UNI plans to use Second Life™ to create a community for affiliates, which will let trade unionists from around the world meet and work together on shared issues. The project also aims to use the medium to present union campaigns to a new audience, and enable a new generation of online activists to have more input into union activities.

© Hellmail.co.uk (22 April 2008)

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