This Saturday, I will be joining the Left Bloc at the anti-Brexit demonstration: “No to Boris, yes to Europe.”
As you may know, joining the march hasn’t been an easy decision. While I am a remainer at heart, I always had my concerns about the demand for a fresh referendum. I hoped a compromise could bring the country back together and allow us to focus on addressing the many burning issues facing working class people in Britain.
However, three years since the original vote, it is clear that the only possible Brexit is a disastrous one orchestrated by Boris Johnson: one that would destroy jobs, end freedom of movement and put our rights and public services at risk. It’s a threat to the most vulnerable and marginalised people in our society. Now is the time for the left to unite in resisting it.
In 2016, I was proud to be part of Another Europe is Possible: the only Remain campaign run explicitly from the left. If a new referendum happens, only this kind of campaign can win it: one that offers hope, not just fear; one that talks about genuine change, not preserving the status quo. Opposing Brexit is not enough: we need to present our alternative solutions to Britain’s problems and put forward an inspiring vision for the future, built not on nationalism and division but on solidarity between people and across borders.
That’s why I will be marching with Another Europe and speaking at the Left Bloc rally, alongside other radical voices: Clive Lewis, Laura Parker, Amelia Womack and a range of grassroots activists from trade unionists to climate strikers. We will be demanding a European living wage, decent jobs and homes for everyone, a truly public NHS, freedom of movement for all and a transnational Green New Deal to tackle inequality and stop catastrophic climate change. I hope to see you there.
I would also encourage you, in case you haven’t yet, to become a member of Another Europe is Possible and help build the campaign that can beat Tory Brexit. At this crucial moment, we need everyone involved – so sign up here and join the fight.
In solidarity,
Owen Jones
18th July 2019