Socialists make a splash at UQ

By Roberto Jorquera

BRISBANE — Orientation week was held at the University of Queensland from February 16 to 19. During that week, Resistance held vibrant stalls that attracted hundreds of people interested in socialist politics.

More than 150 copies of Green Left Weekly were distributed, many to first-time readers. Resistance also organised a meeting about the campaign to free political prisoners in Indonesia who are currently being tried for subversion. Speakers addressed the current situation in Indonesia and explained the role of the People's Democratic Party in the fight against the Suharto dictatorship.

Resistance organiser Kathy Newnam said, "It is vital for people in Australia to show solidarity with the political prisoners, particularly considering the shameful role that Australian governments, past and present, have played. We need to tell people about the role that the Australian government is playing to help prop up the Indonesian dictatorship".

The meeting was followed by an "Introduction to Resistance" session where the students discussed future events to be organised by the UQ Resistance club. These include a "Why Marxism?" forum and another on feminism and socialism; a speak-out against racism; and an orientation week camp with the theme "As radical as reality".

The Resistance club is also building events around International Women's Day and plans to promote the national day of action against cuts to education to be held on March 26. If you would like to join Resistance and get involved, ring Kathy or Ruth on 3254 0565.

From GLW issue 264