The appeal for working-class unity based on economic struggles is an appeal to all workers, to the whole class. In the struggle for class unity, there is nothing more important than the understanding that the greatest ruling class weapon in its drive to split the working class is racism. While racially and nationally oppressed workers are the main victims of racism, the disunity it creates weakens the fighting ability of the whole class, permitting the intensified exploitation of both Black and white. Wherever capitalism is able to split the class there is a general deterioration in living standards. Wherever the multiracial, multinational, male-female work force is able to unite around issues against corporate power, as in the UPS strike, victory is almost always around the corner.
Class consciousness is the most potent antidote to the poison of racism, prejudice and bigotry.
This advanced level means that workers are convinced that their rights can never be assured under capitalism, that not even their hard-won trade union gains, not even their unions, are safe under capitalist rule. In spite of some differences, the appeal for all-sided class unity should be made to all workers. Anything that places obstacles to unity must be fought against. One such major stumbling block to unity has been the anti-communist clauses in many trade union contracts. It is a great victory, a tremendous step toward greater working class unity.