Port Jackson independent launches campaign
By Roberto Jorquera
SYDNEY — Social Justice Independent for Port Jackson, Denis Doherty, launched his campaign for the state elections here on March 3. Around 100 people attended the launch, which was also addressed by activists including Tim Anderson, Jack Mundy and Green upper house candidate Josephine Faith.
Doherty is committed to campaigning for the environment and justice in areas such as health, education, employment, Aboriginal affairs and women's rights.
Doherty said, "I stand for a fresh, positive approach to politics, one that is about building community, not splitting it into warring factions. Our approach is community-based. It is for genuine consultation and community involvement."
Doherty also spoke about the need to build a new politics,"drawing together the progressive forces to fight the Tweedledum and Tweedledee of the two party system".
"Change comes about by the activity of the people — in organisations, demonstrations and other actions — and through parliament. Change does not come about just because good people are elected to parliament", Doherty said.
"Independents must rely on their performance rather than party endorsement. With an independent, you are guaranteed a hard-working, fully committed representative", Doherty said.
Doherty concluded,"We are here to imagine and bring into reality a parliament full of independents and greens and of parliamentarians who really represent the people — not vested interests — parliamentarians who want a new direction."
Doherty's campaign is endorsed by the Inner Sydney Greens, the Sydney Greens and Senator Christabel Chamarette.For more information, contact Denis Doherty on (02) 267 2772 (campaign office) or 660 7562 (H).