Link to this page: https://secure.socialistparty.org.uk/issue/504/3212
From The Socialist newspaper, 4 October 2007
Socialism 2007: Ideas for our future
For young people new to the ideas of socialism, Socialism 2007 will be an indispensable opportunity for you to gather new knowledge, new ideas and new hope that a socialist world is possible.
Richie Clesham, Somerset Socialist Students
As a 15 year-old first time attendee at last year's Socialism, with no previous involvement in any political organisations or events, it did all seem a little overwhelming at first.
Within minutes of arriving I was helping out by putting up placards in the surrounding area, and handing out leaflets and selling the socialist. Although I was thrown in the deep end, I soon relished this opportunity to get involved.
Once the sessions started I was able to really get into the event. Although I had just a basic awareness of the ideas of socialism I was still able to keep up with the discussions, and, particularly in the nuclear power discussion, I was able to make contributions of my own.
Participating in Socialism is immensely valuable, from the ideas and experiences of others you are able to refine your own ideas as well as build upon your existing knowledge.
For those new to Socialism your eyes can be opened to new ways of thinking. And the benefits don't just come from taking part in discussions. Last year's rally was a truly awe-inspiring event featuring some fantastic speakers.
And perhaps most importantly, being able to meet so many like-minded people is so encouraging. It can also be incredibly reassuring that you aren't fighting against capitalism, imperialism, and exploitation on your own, but that there are many people out there willing to show solidarity and support for your work.
For both the new and the experienced, the importance of events like Socialism cannot be underestimated. The overall feeling of solidarity and determination from those who attend can inspire you for the coming fights.
Socialism 2007
17–18 November 2007
University of London Union, Malet Street, London WC1
socialism2007.net
Ticket prices:
- Weekend: £20 waged; £10 unwaged/low paid
- Rally/one day only: £10 waged; £5 unwaged/low paid
Make cheques payable to Socialism and send to PO Box 24697, London E11 1YD 020 8988 8768
[email protected]
Donate to the Socialist Party
Finance appeal
The coronavirus crisis has laid bare the class character of society in numerous ways. It is making clear to many that it is the working class that keeps society running, not the CEOs of major corporations.
The results of austerity have been graphically demonstrated as public services strain to cope with the crisis.
The government has now ripped up its 'austerity' mantra and turned to policies that not long ago were denounced as socialist. But after the corona crisis, it will try to make the working class pay for it, by trying to claw back what has been given.
- The Socialist Party's material is more vital than ever, so we can continue to report from workers who are fighting for better health and safety measures, against layoffs, for adequate staffing levels, etc.
- When the health crisis subsides, we must be ready for the stormy events ahead and the need to arm workers' movements with a socialist programme - one which puts the health and needs of humanity before the profits of a few.
Inevitably, during the crisis we have not been able to sell the Socialist and raise funds in the ways we normally would.
We therefore urgently appeal to all our viewers to donate to our Fighting Fund.
In The Socialist 4 October 2007:
Support postal workers: decisive action can win
"We've had the battle - now this is war!"
Protests make bosses ditch closure plan
War and terrorism
Iraq: end the occupation nightmare
Stop the War Coalition (STWC) national demonstration
Editorial and comment
Tory party fears an autumn election
Socialist Party NHS campaign
Socialist Party news and analysis
Classroom assistants on strike
Supermarket price-fixing scandal
Success! Double whammy for nursery campaign
Socialist Party features
EU's anti-working class 'reforms'
Socialist Students
Socialist Party feature
Che Guevara - revolutionary fighter
Socialist Party events
Socialism 2007: Ideas for our future
International socialist news and analysis
Burma: Dictatorship under threat
Socialist Party reviews and comment
QPR buy-out - Reclaim the game!
It's a free world, a film by Ken Loach
Socialist Party workplace news
Local government pay offer: It's time for action
Remploy workers win partial victory
National Shop Stewards Network makes plans
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