Lest we forget
By Dave Riley
I am sick of the bitter, sectarian divisiveness that exists on the left in this country. Unlike some of my colleagues, I would like to express my utmost respect for those readers of Â鶹ӳ» Weekly who plan to renew their membership of the Australian Labor Party.
At a time when notions of commitment are standardly treated with disdain, it is heartening to know that there are people among us who believe that they can make a difference. Yes, even in the Labor Party. Such sentiments are rare.
This is precisely what the Left should be doing to regain its relevance — daring to struggle, daring to win.
No matter what others may say, no matter how futile the exercise may at first appear, it is pleasing to see such sentiment rekindled even in the most cynical of breasts. (And let's face it, we lefties are a cynical bunch.) I don't think I could do it. Comrades, I take my hat off to you.
I tell you: ignore the criticisms. Be firm and resolute. What this country needs is a Labor Party left wing. If we only had had such a body 15, 10 or even five years ago, things would be so very different today.
To you campus students, let me say: the future of the Labor Party is in your hands. It is from among you that the leaders of tomorrow will be drawn. The radical idealism of youth and its determination never to compromise will find a ready home in the new left of the Labor Party.
Unfortunately, I cannot be with you to share your great endeavour. While my heart and my hopes go with you, this old soldier will be sitting this one out. But don't worry, from the sidelines I — and maybe one or two others — will be cheering you on.
To give my support some tangible form, I have arranged for the early reprinting of the seminal work Towards Socialism in 1001 Motions. This classic text shows you how to make each vote count. In the Labor Party, you can't be left without it.
So before you renew your ticket, make certain you pick up a copy. You'll need some grounding in theory, because this time the left is reputed to mean business — so entry standards are quite high.
I also understand that there is still a limited stock available from head office of the newly revised and updated edition of The 1994/95 ALP Careers Guide. Always a popular seller, you'll need it if you want to keep abreast of all the left options currently available to you.
It is no use pretending that you won't run into some problems of credibility. Other members of the left community are not as well read as I, and ignorance does breed misunderstanding. Their criticisms may tend to annoy, even phase you at times. Unlike so many others, you know on which side you stand. Never forget that. If anything distinguishes the militant wing of the ALP from the sham socialist politics that masquerades outside, it is practical allegiance to the working people of Australia.
Such fortitude shames the rest of us. Where would we be if you weren't where you are? Who says the left is no longer capable of sacrificing for its principles?
Let's hear it for the new left of the Labor Party. Comrades, heed my plea: Stay in and fight!
Lest we forget you.