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From The Socialist newspaper, 25 August 2021
Why I rejoined the Socialist Party
In Labour I was a fish out of water
Coventry Socialist Party campaigning against hospital parking charges (Click to enlarge)
Mary Medd, Coventry Socialist Party
I could very much identify with the article by Steve Merriman (see 'Labour v Socialist Party - my experience is seismic'). I have been a supporter of the Socialist Party since the 1990s, and always voted for their candidates.
However, when Jeremy Corbyn became the Labour leader, I joined the Labour Party, believing it would at last be reflecting my socialist beliefs. I hoped to become an active member, but after attending only a couple of local meetings, I realised I was a fish out of water.
Throughout this period, my Socialist Party comrades remained in touch, and would regularly deliver the Socialist and chat, even during the pandemic.
I tried to see the best in Keir Starmer. But I knew I had to leave Labour, and be true to my beliefs.
I rejoined the Socialist Party, and regularly attend branch meetings, where a variety of issues are debated each week. Contributions are welcome from all, with suggestions for further debates.
Although I am now retired, and not physically involved with workplace issues, it is good to hear from younger people active in the trade union movement, as I once was, fighting for workers' rights. I would recommend the Socialist Party to all those on the left who are seeking a political home.
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In The Socialist 25 August 2021:
What we think
Afghanistan disaster - Unite to fight for funding for refugees and local communities
Afghanistan
Afghanistan: The Taliban takeover - what are the lessons for the workers' movement internationally
News
UK hospitals in danger of collapse
University of Leeds students bribed to stay away while staff are under attack
Exam results: grade gap widens
Lessons from Poplar 100 years on
Lessons from Poplar 100 years on
Workplace news
NEU: Oppose the pay freeze with action not just words
Care workers struggle for a pay rise and trade union recognition
Reject the Ministry of Justice pay offer
East Midlands rail strikes continue
Homelessness workers fight for better pay and conditions across sector
Woolwich ferry strikers - the action necessary to win
Liverpool university strike saves jobs
International
Nigeria: Comrade Omomeewa, student leader and socialist campaigner, killed by armed assailants
SNP-Green deal will not deliver for workers and youth
Reflections on the Lebanese tragedy one year on
Campaigns
Biggest in-person socialist event this year!
Ealing by-election: Labour council has not opposed Tory cuts
Why I rejoined the Socialist Party
Councils declared climate emergency - now act like it!
Wales: Gearing up for 9 October youth marches
Liverpool: Stop the arms fair!
Marching for Kashmir's liberation
Donate to stop Tories clawing back crumbs
Readers' opinion
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2021