London, one of the main hubs of capitalism.
And yet, a Marxism Festival took place here from 2nd-5th July. Our world is odd innit...
So, I noticed this festival being advertised online a while ago, and I decided to get some tickets and go meet some fellow left-wing minded fellows out there. I took my Mrs (yes, I got married earlier this month. Thank you, thank you etc.). We had some Eggslut (nom nom nom) on our way to Shoreditch and got our festival bracelets from some nice smiley people at the entrance.
The festival was hosted by the Socialist Workers Party. Undisputedly, the most active lefty-wing party in the UK, and one of the millions that exist in this edge of the political spectrum. That was one my issues when I first came in the UK and wanted to join the most prevalent socialist/communist party, as I didn't know which one to choose. Maybe, we can all set aside our differences and ego, and create a big socialist party so we can FINALLY smash capitalism. No? Okay... The SWP doesn't participate in the elections, as they believe only in the revolutionary way. You will find me somewhere in the middle in this argument.
Very well organised as a festival. Food, books, stands everywhere. People giving you leaflets and wanting to have a chat. It was good vibes, you know. We bought two books. We watched Yanis Varoufakis being interviewed via Zoom. Jeremy Corbyn was supposedly there, but we didn't get to see him. Zarah Sultana was supposed to be there (?), but maybe her beef with Corbyn was a bit too much. I don't know...
There were various rooms around, besides the main stage, which allowed for discussions around so many interesting topics, from Zionism and Palestine, to Capitalism and the Global South. Eventually we chose the latter, and made ourselves to the Trotsky room. Yes, all the rooms had cute little names, such as Marx room or Lenin room. etc. Cute, I know.
The topic around Dependence Theory and how Capitalism affected and still does affect the Global South was excellent. The speaker, who introduced the subject, (can't remember his name), was very articulate and passionate about this topic.
Honestly, I kinda knew what I was expecting from going to this festival. I'd agree with pretty much everyone there. And I did. Nothing wrong with that, I guess. All the arguments were made based on facts. The education and knowledge level of all the speakers and activists was remarkable. And the verdict is always the same. Capitalism has ruined so many lives, and it continues to do so. It is a virus upon this blue dot that we live in.
And even though, noone (well except for similar minded people) is listening, we shall continue to be active, support the socialist movement, and spread the word. And hope for the best.