This branch notes
- The positive work of our ‘proto-branch’ for the past 8 months, without the recognition of Your Party nationally and despite the crisis of the national party
- The impressive mobilisation we were able to organise throughout the local election campaign in Cathall ward for the local elections
- That the election of a Green council opens up a new phase in politics in Waltham Forest
This branch believes
- That the forces we have brought together can play an important role in this new period, and should continue to organise following the elections
- Socialists should be prepared to mobilise support for any positive measures put forward by the new council, to hold them to account where necessary, and to call on them to deliver changes in the interests of working class people locally
- Delivering the clear mandate for change that has been demonstrated in these local elections will require mobilisation and organisation on the ground
Therefore, we resolve that:
- We will organise a launch conference for a local independent, socialist grouping. This launch conference should be organised by Mid-June under the banner of Waltham Forest Independent Socialists
- Membership will be open to all socialists, regardless of organised political affiliations. This includes both those wishing to remain members of YP and those who do not.
- To invite activists neighbouring areas to be a part of this project, including but not limited to members of: Walthamstow proto-branch, Chingford Independents, North East London Solidarity Network (formerly YP Stratford & Bow), YP Redbridge
- The Interim Committee should prepare: a draft political statement, 6-month organising strategy, and proposal for electing a steering group, as well as an agenda proposal for the conference – to be circulated in advance