In Labour I was a fish out of water

Mary Medd, Coventry Socialist Party – in The Socialist Issue 1145

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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Tens of thousands of people who joined Labour because of Jeremy Corbyn have now left -or been kicked out- after Keir Starmer became leader and Labour’s right wing set about re-establishing Labour as a party of capitalism.

If Mary’s and Steve’s experiences of Labour sound like yours, if you want to be part of an organisation that really wants to build the fight for socialism, get in touch!