By Dawn M. Sanders
My decision to stand as an ordinary member within the Southwest region has come from reflection and careful consideration.
I have been active on the left for over 25 years, starting with pre-Afghanistan/Iraq invasion campaigns, leading to my degree in International Politics, leading to activism – coupled with personal experience as a woman with a visual impairment and single mum.
Growing up in the US in the post-segregation era, my beginnings were extremely aware, in facing discrimination first-hand and that of others, as prejudice was everywhere.
I have visited the occupied territory of Palestine; rallied against austerity; was active in the Occupy movement (spearheading the rally of the 99%). I was active in the Socialist party – engaging in public speaking and shaping policy, simultaneously qualifying as a journalist, where my political experience superseded articles. This manifested as founding editor of Barriers to Bridges, an online magazine, providing a platform for the most marginalised in society.
Most recently, I was Diversity Equality Inclusion (DEI) officer on the executive committee for Transform party.
Personally, I have fought tirelessly in the last ten years, for my family’s autonomy and human rights. Because my son has complex additional needs, we are targeted within a biased judicial system. Therefore, I am passionate in empowering the most stigmatised people and communities.
I take a progressive, ‘can do’ approach as an egalitarian, often challenging stereotypical views and pigeonholing – even on the left.
If elected, I would:
- Be proactive at local level, through assemblies within a challenging region where Socialism is patchy. Address local concerns, ensuring the grassroots are heard and connected within Your Party.
- Ensure procedures are in line with Party policy and ethics – discouraging in-fighting and factionalism.
- As an environmentalist I would promote environmental policy, equality (in practice), and participative democracy.