New Times,
New Thinking.

11 January 2013

Laurie Penny on sexism on the left: What does the SWP’s way of dealing with sexual assault allegations tell us about the left?

When it comes to sexual violence, progressive organisations should not be held to different standards.

By Laurie Penny

How do we deal with sexual violence on the left? Here’s a case study.

The Socialist Workers’ Party, for those who aren’t familiar with it already, is a political organisation of several thousand members which has been a prominent force on the British left for more than 30 years. They are at the forefront of the fight against street fascism in Britain, were a large organising presence in the student and trade union movement over the past several years, and are affiliated with large, active parties in other countries, like Germany’s Die Linke. Many of the UK’s most important thinkers and writers are members, or former members.

Content from our partners
Collaboration is key to ignition
Common Goals
Securing our national assets