Socialist Alliance launched in Lismore

Issue 

BY MATT EGAN

LISMORE — Nearly 40 people crammed into a caf‚ on May 17 to hear about the newly-formed Socialist Alliance and help launch a local SA group.

Edda Lampis, of the International Socialist Organisation, outlined the crisis of capitalism internationally and the vicious attacks of the Howard government on workers and the poor.

Boyd Kellner, central council member of the NSW Public Sector Association, argued that workers desperately needed political representation, and that union militants would be drawn to "an alternative to the class-collaborationist politics of the Labor bureaucrats".

The Democratic Socialist Party's Nick Fredman outlined how the Socialist Alliance came about and discussed its platform, strategy and its "vision of a new society based on collective and democratic ownership and control, on cooperation and solidarity".

Ideas brought up in discussion included debates with Labor and the Greens, regular educational discussions around the ideas of socialism, and the organisation of a protest on June 3, the national day of action for refugees' rights.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.