John Bunn, Sheffield South East Socialist Party
I joined the Socialist Party a year ago after coming across a campaign stall and talking with Alistair, a local organiser. I was 69 and very angry at the political situation. I had rejoined the Labour Party to vote for Jeremy Corbyn but had become disillusioned with Starmer’s attack on the left of the party and since resigned. My family had suggested I get involved in politics again as I was becoming unbearable at home, especially when the news was on, so meeting Alistair was an opportunity to do this. I was unsure what role I could play but I was encouraged to join and see how I got on, and what a year it has been!
I have been on several picket lines and, as a retired nurse, was pleased to support striking nurses. I have assisted Socialist Party campaign stalls at least weekly. I am part of the local Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition organising committee, and stood in the local elections, speaking at a hustings, leafleting and canvassing my local area.
I got 78 votes in the election in a strong Liberal Democrat area and I am now looking for some of those 78 socialists.
I look forward to the weekly Socialist Party meetings which have grown massively over the last year. The Socialist Party has a clear perspective and understanding of the political situation both nationally and internationally, which gives me hope that there is a future for my children, and that it will be socialist.
