LEFT UNITY: THE FIRST MEETING 14th January 2013

The deepening economic crisis and accelerating attacks on working people are compelling us to work in new ways. That was the conclusion reached by a number of people from a range of left backgrounds who came together yesterday to share views on overcoming the weaknesses of the left. Fragmentation, division, hostility – these have become normalised amongst political forces that actually share common political goals. But many of us have detected a new mood – to be more creative and expansive
about our politics – and to begin to discuss realignment of the left in the broadest sense. Last night’s discussion was only one of many that are doubtless taking place across the country: how to come together to take the working class forward; how to demonstrate that such a project is not only necessary but possible and achievable.
Our basic principles and common practice are a good place for discussion to start: opposition to capitalism, imperialism, war and racism; defence of the welfare state and articulation and advance of redistributive social and economic policies. And a democratic, diverse and inclusive practice with open dialogue and new ways of working – respect and mutual tolerance of differences of analysis. Those present were united in the commitment to help take this process forward, working widely to explore and develop this political space. We will, very shortly, launch a new website to generate and embrace the necessary dialogue. We will welcome
contributions and online debate from across the left, from individuals and organisations. Building on that participation we then plan to facilitate discussion meetings that will bring people together, to help meet the needs of the movement. Above all, to share a vision and bring it into reality, of unity, solidarity and action which will enable us to break out of the current catastrophic impasse.