This year, the Trade Union Meal will be implemented from the grassroots level, peaking from July 20 to September 2 to celebrate the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Trade Union and the 80th anniversary of National Day.
I was once invited by Chairman of Nghe An Provincial Federation of Labor Kha Van Tam to attend a special meal. I refused: "I'm abstaining from alcohol, why are you showing me why? "Mr. Tam smiled big and patted my shoulder: "There's no wine, let's go with us, have a worker's meal, the Union Meal".
So I immediately agreed, and went with Tam to the Southeast Economic Zone of Nghe An - where tens of thousands of workers were concentrated. Mr. Tam asked: "So how do journalists imagine the Union Meal?". I smiled and replied: "A little eggs, a glass of water, some dessert". Then the Chairman of Nghe An Provincial Federation of Labor said: "Just go and know".
In the peaceful space of a summer afternoon, I and the workers in Nghe An sat down together, enjoying a warm meal in an atmosphere of solidarity and sharing. Every bustling step of the workers, every congratulation and encouragement from the union and the business leaders made today's meal a special moment in which everyone felt deeply connected.
"Welcome to you, wishing you a delicious and healthy meal," the wishing from the Chairman of Nghe An Provincial Labor Federation sounded gently and warmly, making the atmosphere even more friendly. Each worker feels like being gathered with his family, in a space where there is no longer a gap between superiors and subordinates, but only sharing and sympathy.
That meal was held at Innovation Precision Vietnam Co., Ltd., where the tables were prepared with all the attractive dishes. The menu is not simply a regular meal, but also a care from the Trade Union organization. Each dish is meticulously prepared, full of nutrients, to ensure the health of workers. The rich, simple dishes such as mustard soup, pork stew, and crispy fried fish make the atmosphere more cozy.
I observed around and saw smiles on each person's lips. Workers happily chat, listen to each other's stories about work, life, difficulties and joys in each working day. Listening to those stories, I not only feel the closeness but also feel the deep sympathy between workers and the Trade Union organization. These meals are not only an occasion for eating, but also an opportunity for them to show their concern, share and motivate each worker to be more attached to work.
Hoang Minh - a worker in the Southeast Economic Zone - said: "We feel very happy and joyful to participate in this meal. Not only delicious dishes but also the true attention from the union. Today's meal makes me feel like I am not only a worker, but also a part of the union family".
This year, I called Mr. Kha Van Tam, he immediately showed off: "This year, celebrating the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Trade Union organization, the Provincial Federation of Labor issued a plan from mid-July to guide grassroots trade unions to deploy the "Union Meal" simultaneously at noon on Friday, July 25, 2025".
The program is an opportunity for union members, employers and trade unions to sit down and share, build harmonious labor relations and increase trust and attachment. The organizers include grassroots unions, departmental unions or trade union groups at units that organize daily lunches. The value of the meal will be equal to the total value of the daily meal plus additional support from union finances and other socialized sources.
In particular, the Provincial Federation of Labor will directly organize "Union Meals" at 6 grassroots unions including: Innovation Precision Vietnam Co., Ltd.; Greatlongview Vietnam Co., Ltd.; Innovative Manufacturing Solutions Vietnam Co., Ltd.; Apex Vietnam Shoes Company (Do Luong branch); Minh Anh Do Luong Garment Joint Stock Company and Thanh Chuong Group Joint Stock Company, with a total estimated cost of 120 million VND.
At the meal, grassroots unions will integrate propaganda to celebrate the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Trade Union, organize the admission of new union members, give birthday gifts, and encourage union members in difficult circumstances. Maintaining the "Union Meal" not only takes practical care of the material and spiritual life of union members but also demonstrates the role of the union in negotiating with employers" - Mr. Kha Van Tam said.
The atmosphere of the "Union Meal" is not only created from delicious dishes but also from meaningful accompanying activities. During this lunch, birthday gifts were given to union members whose birthdays are in the month, and sincere words of encouragement were also sent to workers in difficult circumstances. All these small but meaningful actions have helped strengthen the relationship between workers and the Trade Union organization, creating a harmonious and close working space.
Somewhere amidst the tiring moments during long working hours, a meal filled with love is moved, not only bringing health, but also a spiritual medicine to help workers become more attached to the Trade Union organization. The Union Meal, a simple but meaningful initiative, has become a sustainable bridge between the Union organization, workers and businesses.
Not only bringing immediate joy, the Union Meal also has a long-term effect in creating a healthy labor culture. Enterprises and trade unions have affirmed that this activity not only helps improve labor relations but also contributes to improving production and business efficiency. The good relationship between employees and employers is the foundation for sustainable development.
"Union Meal" is a testament to the concern and practical care for workers of the union and a motivation to help them stick together and contribute to the company. Because a warm meal not only nourishes the body but also nourishes the soul, creating strong connections to move forward together.
