The Antigua and Barbuda Workers' Union (ABWU) has formalised a landmark partnership with the Lupus Association of Antigua and Barbuda, pledging financial support and advocacy for those living with the autoimmune disease.
ABWU General Secretary Chester Hughes and Lupus Association President Diane Clarke signed a memorandum of understanding at a ceremony at the union's headquarters, with ABWU making an initial donation of EC$15,000 to support the association's patient care and community education programmes.
About Lupus in Antigua
Lupus — a chronic autoimmune disease disproportionately affecting women of African descent — is estimated to affect approximately 1 in every 1,000 Antiguans, though the association believes significant underdiagnosis means the true figure may be higher. The disease can cause severe joint pain, fatigue, organ damage, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications.
"Our members and their families are affected by lupus, and it is only right that the ABWU stands in solidarity with those who suffer every day with this invisible illness," Hughes said at the signing ceremony.
