Green Party Conference Energized by ‘Zacktivism’ and Activism

On October 4, 2023, a group of protesters gathered on Bournemouth beach, forming a “red line for Palestine” just before 1 p.m. This demonstration, organized by the campaign group Greens Organise, marked a significant moment for the Green Party as all three members of its leadership team—Zack Polanski, Mothin Ali, and Rachel Millward—joined the activists. The event showcased banners proclaiming “Sanctions Now: Stop Arming Israel,” capturing the urgency of the party’s political stance in the wake of recent violence in the Middle East.

Ali, visibly emotional from his earlier conference speech, led the crowd with chants of “Free Palestine,” while a lone St George’s Cross waved alongside numerous Palestinian flags. This protest occurred during a tense political climate in the UK, following anti-Semitic attacks on a synagogue in North Manchester. The government, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary Suella Braverman, has urged the public to refrain from attending pro-Palestine protests this weekend, a directive the Green Party openly challenged.

Polanski, who identifies as Jewish and hails from North Manchester, expressed his concerns about the government’s narrative, stating that it is “deeply irresponsible” to conflate the Jewish community with the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He emphasized the potential risks such conflation poses to Jewish individuals.

Renewed Energy and Membership Growth

The Green Party’s conference has been characterized by a palpable sense of renewal and activism, particularly since Polanski’s election as leader just over a month ago. Millward, addressing delegates for the first time as deputy leader, announced that the party now boasts over 83,500 members, surpassing the Liberal Democrats’ 83,170. This surge has been described by former leader Natalie Bennett as a “second Green surge,” indicating a shift towards a more left-leaning and assertive political identity.

The conference drew unprecedented attendance, including a notable rise in press accreditation requests. During his inaugural speech, Polanski received enthusiastic applause, highlighting a growing momentum within the party. New social events, such as evening parties and casual gatherings, further reflect this vibrant atmosphere. Merchandise related to the conference, particularly mugs featuring Polanski and the slogan “Zacktivist,” sold out quickly, demonstrating heightened engagement among members.

Despite this enthusiasm, not all former members share the same optimism. A group known as ‘Greens in Exile’ emerged, consisting of individuals expelled from the party for their views on trans rights. This faction attempted to counter the Red Line for Palestine protest and disrupted conference motions related to trans rights, illustrating ongoing divisions within the party.

Conference Culture and Policy Focus

The Green Party conference distinctly contrasts with other political gatherings, particularly the Labour Party conference, by maintaining a lack of corporate sponsorship. This decision aligns with the party’s aversion to what it terms the “corporate takeover” of politics. The atmosphere at the conference has been described as more akin to a local community event, with vibrant discussions and an absence of traditional political formalities.

Throughout the three-day event, members engaged in policy discussions, with various motions proposed for voting, including one advocating for the abolition of private landlords. Proponents of this motion expressed optimism about its passage. Another motion, already approved, seeks to reform trans healthcare within the National Health Service (NHS).

Food options available at the conference were exclusively vegetarian or vegan, showcasing the party’s environmental priorities. Delegates enjoyed various offerings, including a vegan hot dog advertised as the best in the world—a claim that may warrant further scrutiny.

Notable figures such as Caroline Lucas, a long-time Green Party member, and journalist Owen Jones, who joined the party last year, were present. Jones, reflecting on the conference’s atmosphere, stated, “I doubt these guys will rescind my pass,” indicating his comfort within this new political landscape.

As the Green Party continues to evolve, the juxtaposition of passionate activism alongside internal challenges illustrates a complex yet vibrant political entity. The developments at this conference signal a critical juncture for the party as it seeks to assert its influence in UK politics.