Protesters Rally for Palestine During Green Party Conference

A group of protesters gathered on Bournemouth beach on October 4, 2023, as part of a demonstration organized by the Green Party and the campaign group Greens Organise. The protest, known as the “red line for Palestine,” featured activists holding a long piece of red cloth alongside banners demanding immediate action, including “Sanctions Now: Stop Arming Israel.” The event coincided with the Green Party conference, where all three members of the party’s leadership team, including Zack Polanski, Mothin Ali, and Rachel Millward, were present.

Ali, who had expressed deep emotions during his earlier conference speech, led the crowd with a megaphone, chanting “Free Palestine.” The scene was marked by a striking contrast of flags, notably a lone St George’s Cross among a sea of Palestinian banners. This demonstration occurred in a politically charged environment, following anti-Semitic incidents in North Manchester that have reignited discussions on the UK’s foreign policy regarding the Middle East.

Polanski, who identifies as a member of the Jewish community from North Manchester, spoke to Sky News about the dangers of conflating Jewish identity with the situation in Gaza, stating, “Putting those two things together, as a Jewish person, makes me feel personally more at risk.” The Green Party’s stance reflects a broader ideological shift under Polanski’s leadership, emphasizing a more vocal and progressive approach to political activism.

Green Party Sees Surge in Membership and Support

Since Polanski’s election as leader just over a month ago, there has been a noticeable increase in party enthusiasm and membership. The Green Party now boasts over 83,500 members, surpassing the Lib Dems at 83,170 members. This surge was palpable at the conference, where delegates experienced an unprecedented level of engagement, with more new members attending than ever before.

Millward, addressing the audience during her first speech as deputy leader, declared the Green Party as the fastest-growing political movement in the UK. This energy was reflected in the atmosphere, with attendees participating in evening events and discussions, a departure from previous formats. Merchandise such as mugs featuring a grinning Polanski and the slogan “Zacktivist” quickly sold out, signaling a shift in the party’s culture.

While the conference exuded a sense of excitement, not all participants were aligned with the new direction. A group of former members, who had been expelled over their views on trans rights, formed an opposition group called “Greens in Exile.” They attempted to disrupt the red line protest and the conference proceedings, highlighting ongoing tensions within the party.

Green Party’s Unique Political Identity

The Green Party conference maintained its signature ethos, standing in stark contrast to other political gatherings. Unlike the Labour Party conference, which often showcases corporate sponsorships, the Green Party’s event felt more grassroots, with a focus on member-driven policy discussions. Posters advocating various motions adorned the conference space, including a proposal to abolish private landlords, which is expected to be voted on imminently.

The conference menu catered exclusively to vegetarian and vegan diets, featuring options like beans, nachos, and a vegan hot dog touted as “the best in the world.” The absence of formal attire often associated with traditional politics was noticeable, as delegates opted for casual clothing, including the popular Lucy and Yak fleeces and Doc Martens.

Prominent figures such as Caroline Lucas and activist Owen Jones were also in attendance, engaging in discussions about potential alliances and the future of left-wing politics in the UK. Jones, who joined the Green Party after leaving Labour, expressed confidence in his new political home, remarking on the inclusive atmosphere of the conference.

The Green Party’s recent developments signal a dynamic shift towards a more vocal and organized approach, positioning itself as a significant player in the UK’s political landscape. As the party continues to evolve, its commitment to grassroots activism and member engagement remains a defining characteristic.