The inaugural conference of Your Party commenced in Liverpool on Saturday, where members passionately discussed the direction and identity of the new political organization. The opening day was overshadowed by tensions stemming from recent leadership actions against the left, raising questions about whether Your Party will embrace a truly radical and democratic ethos or simply replicate the structure of the Labour Party.
A significant theme emerging from the conference was a strong desire among delegates to move past internal divisions. Many expressed a commitment to establishing Your Party as a genuine socialist alternative. During the discussions, Mark Gage from Dorset received a standing ovation for his declaration, “We shouldn’t be scared of saying the word socialism—we should be proud.” He called for inclusivity, stating, “no expulsions, no witch-hunts,” emphasizing the need for unity within the party.
The conference engaged in debates over proposed amendments regarding the party’s identity. Key questions included whether it should explicitly define itself as a socialist organization, prioritize the working class, and aim to build a mass party aligned with the broadest social coalition. Karen Reissmann from Manchester argued passionately for a broad approach, saying, “Lots of people are angry and looking for an alternative. That’s why 800,000 people signed up as being interested in Your Party.” She insisted that the party must not leave behind marginalized groups, including migrant workers and the trans+ community, asserting, “If we are different, we will attract people.”
Despite the enthusiasm for a broad coalition, some delegates raised concerns about inclusivity. Erin from Glasgow cautioned against welcoming individuals with transphobic views, urging that the party should promote solidarity without compromising its values. James from Shropshire expressed uncertainty regarding the amendment for a broad alliance, feeling it was overly vague and susceptible to misinterpretation.
A contentious issue was the debate over dual membership, particularly with the Socialist Workers Party (SWP). Your Party expelled SWP members prior to the conference, intensifying discussions about whether to allow members of other parties to join. Two amendments on dual membership were proposed: one permitting memberships in other parties approved by the Central Executive Committee (CEC), and another seeking an outright ban on dual membership. The chair struggled to find speakers against dual membership, as many attendees voiced opposition to the perceived witch-hunt against leftist factions.
Some delegates, including James from Islington, criticized the proposed options, stating they did not reflect the desires of Your Party assemblies that had recently debated the party’s founding documents. A sense of frustration was palpable as attendees noted an overreach by the party’s bureaucracy. Prominent figures like Zarah Sultana and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn criticized the ongoing purges within the party, with Corbyn highlighting that the SWP is officially registered and thus cannot join Your Party.
The conference also addressed leadership structures, debating whether to elect a single leader or pursue a model of collective leadership. Proponents of collective leadership, including Dugald, argued that it would empower grassroots activism and keep the party focused on radical politics. He argued, “A single leader centralizes power and detracts from grassroots movements.”
As the day progressed, delegates faced challenges in communicating with the chair, often resorting to waving or using phone lights to attract attention. The discussions occasionally became chaotic, with some attendees calling for an emergency motion to elect a caretaker leadership, acknowledging that the current leadership has contributed to internal strife and a lack of democracy. Despite calls from the audience, this motion was not addressed, leading to further discontent.
The conference will continue, allowing all members, not just delegates, to participate in online voting. Voting is set to close at 08:00 on November 30, with key amendments regarding leadership structure and dual membership on the agenda. The outcome of these votes will significantly influence the future direction of Your Party, as members seek to establish a political force that genuinely represents their ideals and aspirations.
In conclusion, the discussions at the Your Party conference reflect a critical moment in its formation, with members eager to carve out a distinct identity separate from Labour. The urgent call for inclusivity, solidarity, and a clear rejection of divisive tactics will shape the party’s path as it aims to mobilize for upcoming elections and beyond.
