Happily we’ve seen a number of encouraging developments recently, clearly showing that the political left is steadily gaining support both here and abroad. Disappointment and dismay at the performance of the Labour government has no doubt contributed to the sharp increase in membership of the Green Party, which now numbers more than 150,000 and is still rising. That makes ours the UK’s third largest party membership – much needed and welcome news for everyone concerned at the toxic and divisive nature of much of today’s politics.
Here in Dorset we’re delighted to welcome our share of the enthusiastic new members, eager to be part of a positive vision for our county and country, and keen to counteract the political drift to the right which sadly includes the Labour Party. Right-wing claims that the British public wants radical change are correct … but that doesn’t mean we want to fall into an authoritarian fascist state.
While there has also been recent good news about the recovery of some species, following targeted conservation efforts, the fact remains that the window of opportunity is rapidly closing for us to deal with the twin challenges of global warming and the destruction of the natural world. One thing that’s certain is that the future is going to be very different from the present, and whether it will be better or worse is up to all of us.
Which leads me to express my huge thanks to Sustainable Dorset and Zero Carbon Dorset for organising the excellent third Dorset COP, held in the Sturminster Exchange on Sat 1st November. The well-attended day was filled with workshops, creative actions, community connections and conversations about topics such as rural energy ownership and community power. The workshops I attended were all packed to overflowing, and the many exhibition stands served to highlight the large number of organisations in Dorset that are working hard to address our challenges.
It was particularly pleasing to see so many younger participants, many of them already well informed and speaking with great passion and enthusiasm. They contributed hugely to the event, raising everyone’s spirits!
Ken Huggins
North Dorset Green Party
